[orma 
lal 


w — tytAAK 


A 

MEMOIR 


or 


MRS.  HENRIETTA  SHUCK, 


•f 

FIRST  AMERICAN-  FEMALE  MISSIONARY 


TO 


CHINA, 


BY  J.   B.    JETER, 

FAJTOB  or  THB  FIMT  BArriir  CHUECH,  RICHMOND,  TA. 


BOSTON: 

GOULD,   KENDALL,   &.   LINCOLN. 

59  Washington  Street. 

1849. 


Entered  according  to  Act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1846, 

BY  GOULD,  KENDALL,  &  LINCOLN, 
In  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of  Massachusetu. 


STACK 

ANNEX 


PREFACE 


THE  compiler  deems  it  proper  to  state  briefly  the 
motives  which  induced  him  to  prepare  the  following 
Memoir.  Shortly  after  the  death  of  the  late  lamented 
Mrs.  Shuck,  the  members  of  the  China  mission  held  a 
meeting,  and,  with  other  resolutions  suitable  to  the  oc- 
casion, unanimously  adopted  the  following:  — 

"  Resolved  —  That  the  character  and  the  circum- 
stances attending  the  life  of  our  departed  sister  are  in- 
teresting and  instructive,  not  only  to  us,  but,  if  made 
public,  are  calculated  to  aid  the  cause  of  missions  gener- 
ally, and  especially  that  in  which  she  labored  and  died, 
and,  therefore,  that  the  Board  be  requested  to  appoint 
her  former  Pastor,  the  Rev.  J.  B.  Jeter,  or  some  other 
competent  person,  to  prepare  a  Memoir  of  her  life. 

J.  LEWIS  SHUCK,  Sec." 

In  due  time,  the  compiler  received  a  letter  from  the 
Corresponding  Secretary  of  the  Board,  in  Boston,  in- 
forming him  that  they  heartily  concurred  in  the  resolu- 
tion, and  desiring  him  to  "  prepare  a  suitable  memorial 
of  MM.  Shuck's  worth  and  works."  The  appointment 
accorded  with  the  views  and  wishes  of  her  family  and 
friends.  The  compiler  felt  himself  solemnly  called,  in 
1* 


6  PREFACE. 

the  providence  of  God,  to  decide  whether  he  would 
undertake  the  task  assigned  him.  After  serious  delib- 
eration, and,  as  he  trusts,  earnest  prayer  for  divine 
guidance,  he  resolved  to  engage  in  the  preparation  of 
the  Memoir.  Various  considerations  conducted  him  to 
this  decision. 

Mrs.  Shuck  was  the  first  female  Amencan  missiona- 
ry who  went  to  China.  She  was  a  lady  of  good  mind, 
pleasant  manners,  and  most  fervent  piety,  and  self- 
sacrificing  devotion  to  the  cause  of  missions.  Her  cor- 
respondence, on  examination,  was  found  to  be  copious 
and  intrinsically  excellent  If  the  compiler  has  not 
been  deceived  by  his  associations  with  the  esteemed 
subject  of  the  Memoir,  many  of  her  letters,  and  much 
of  her  journals,  are  distinguished  by  a  beautiful  sim- 
plicity and  a  most  touching  pathos,  and  all  of  them  by 
a  kind,  generous,  and  pious  spirit  Her  life,  though 
it  did  not  abound  in  striking  incidents  and  brilliant 
achievements,  was  filled  up  with  diligent,  self-denying, 
and  earnest  efforts  for  the  salvation  of  the  heathen. 

China  is  a  singular,  and,  to  the  enlightened  Chris- 
tian, who  prays  and  labors  for  the  salvation  of  the 
world,  a  most  interesting  country.  The  recent  opening 
of  its  most  important  ports,  by  solemn  treaty,  to  Chris- 
tian missionaries,  and  the  unexpected  toleration  of 
Christianity  in  the  empire,  have  turned  all  Christian 
eyes  and  hearts  towards  it  It  is  the  largest  and  most 
important  mission  field  on  the  globe.  Much  informa- 
tion concerning  China,  its  history,  government,  lan- 
guage, religions,  the  manners,  customs,  and  moral 
condition  of  the  people,  &c.,  will  be  found  incorpo- 
rated in  the  Memoir.  To  those  who  have  not  access  to 


PREFACE.  7, 

other  sources  of  knowledge,  it  will  convey  much  in- 
formation concerning  the  "Celestial  Empire,"  and 
that,  too,  not  always  in  dry  detail,  but  frequently  in 
pleasing  narrative. 

Of  the  execution  of  the  work  the  author  need  say 
nothing ;  of  that  the  public  will  judge,  and  neither  ex- 
planation nor  apology  can  modify  the  decision.  He 
may,  however,  be  permitted  to  say,  that  his  only  re- 
ward for  the  labor  of  preparing  the  Memoir  is  the  hope 
that  it  may  promote  the  interests  of  true  religion  and 
the  cause  of  missions.  The  profits  accruing  from  the 
sale  of  the  copy-right  will  be  appropriated,  one  half  to 
the  education  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  children,  and  the  other 
half  to  the  cause  of  Foreign  Missions,  to  be  divided 
equally  between  the  Northern  and  Southern  Baptist 
Boards.  To  the  compiler,  this  seemed  the  fairest  dis- 
tribution of  the  profits.  To  the  private  correspondence 
of  Mrs.  Shuck,  cheerfully  placed  by  the  family  in  the 
hands  of  the  writer,  without  the  slightest  expectation 
of  pecuniary  advantage  to  her  children,  the  work  will 
be  mainly  indebted  for  its  interest.  Nothing  could  be 
more  suitable  than  that  the  children  should  reap  the 
profits  of  their  dear  mother's  intellectual  efforts.  But 
Mrs.  Shuck  was  a  missionary  as  well  as  a  mother. 
While  living,  her  anxieties,  prayers,  and  labors,  were 
divided  between  her  loved  offspring  and  the  perishing 
heathen.  Let  the  pecuniary  profits  of  her  Memoir  be, 
in  like  manner,  divided.  As  Mrs.  Shuck  labored  under 
the  patronage  of  the  Boston  Board,  and  as  the  Memo/r 
has  been  compiled  at  their  request,  they  have  a  fair 
claim  to  a  portion  of  its  profits ;  and  as  Mrs.  Shuck 
was  a  southern  lady,  and  her  husband  has  connected 


8  PREFACE. 

himself  with  this  Board,  it  seems  proper  that  they  also 
should  participate  in  the  benefit  The  compiler  is  aware 
that  this  explanation  is  not  due  to  the  public ;  that  he 
has  a  perfect  right  to  do  what  he  will  with  his  own ; 
but,  to  prevent  misconception,  he  has  judged  it  better  to 
make  it,  and  hopes  he  shall  be  pardoned  for  giving  the 
subject  a  prominence  to  which  its  importance  does  not 
entitle  it. 

He  now  commits  the  work  to  the  consideration  of  the 
public,  and  to  the  blessing  of  God.  Should  it  be  tne 
means  of  quickening  the  piety  and  increasing  the  lib- 
erality of  Christians,  and  awakening  a  deeper,  and 
stronger,  and  more  effective  interest  in  the  cause  of 
Foreign  Missions,  and  especially  for  the  evangelization 
of  China,  he  will  be  richly  compensated. 

J.  B.  JETER. 
Richmond,  Sept.,  1846. 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER    I. 

Henrietta  Hall's  Birthplace —  Parentage  — Religious  Training— Ed- 
ucation—  Mrs.  Little's  Letter  —  Her  Religious  Awakening — The 
Lancaster  Camp-meeting — Henrietta's  Conversion  —  Baptism  — 
Her  Mother's  Death  —  Her  Father's  Removal  to  Richmond  —  She 
was  placed  in  Mrs.  Reeling's  Seminary  —  Her  first  Missionary  Im- 
prensioM  —  Her  Engagement  to  Mr.  Shuck  —  Vindication  of  Chris- 
tian Missions,  and  her  Motives  —  Her  Letter  to  Sunday  School 
Scholars  —  Her  Marriage  —  Missionaries  set  apart  —  Mrs.  Shuck's 
Trip  to  Boston  —  Her  farewell  Letter  to  her  Father  —  Mr.  Hall's 
Letter  and  parting  Advice  to  his  Daughter. ...PACK  13 


CHAPTER    II. 

The  Embarkation — Parting  Scene  described  by  Dr.  Malcom  —  Ex- 
tracts from  Mr*.  Shuck's  Journal  and  Letters  during  her  Voyage  — 
Ship  touches  at  Kedgeree  —  at  Amherst — Visit  to  Maulmain  — 
Interview  with  the  Missionaries  —  Ship  touches  at  Penang  — 
Beautiful  Scenery  —  Voyage  to  Singapore  —  Fear  of  Pirates  —  Con- 
version of  Bailors 40 


CHAPTER    III. 

Singapore  —  The  Arrival  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shuck  at  this  Place  —  Ex- 
tracts from  Mrs.  Shuck's  Correspondence  and  Journal  during  her 
Residence  there 83 


CHAPTER  IV. 

China  —  Origin  of  the  Name  —  Its  History  —  The  Provinces  of  China 
—  It*  Language  —  Its  Religion  —  Confucianism  —  Budhism  —  Ta- 
ouism  —  Their  Incfficacy 73 


10  CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER    V. 

—  Description  of  it — Extract!  from  Mrs.  Shuck's  Letter*,  in 
Chronological  Order — Difficulty  of  her  Landing—  Mr.  Shuck's 
Visit  to  Canton  — Chinese  Burial  —  Orphan  Boy  —  School  —  Hopes 
of  Ah  Loo's  Conversion  —  Letters  from  America —  Letter  from  Mrs. 
Shuck  to  Susan  —  Affectionate  Exhortation  —  Chinese  New  Year 

—  Baptism  of  Ah  Loo  —  Lord's  Supper — Chinese  Girt,  Jane  Maria 

—  Mrs.  ShucK  studying;  Chinese  with  Mr.  Roberts  —  Translation 
of  Baptism —  Visit  to  a  Heathen  Temple —  Sickness —  Birth  of  a 
second  Child  —  Friends  in  Macao. 93 


CHAPTER    VI. 

to — Remarks  —  Correspondence  of  Mrs.  Shuck  continued  —  Blind 
Girl  —  Filial  Devotion  of  Mrs.  8.—  Ah  Loo's  Visit  to  his  Friends 
—  Goes  tii  Bnnkok  with  Mr.  Dean  —  Death  of  Lucius  —  Consola- 
tory Letter  to  Mrs.  Hall  —  Death  of  Mrs.  Jones  —  Revivals  in  Ameri- 
ca—  Susan's  Conversion —  Mrs.  Shuck's  Advice  to  her —  Fall  of 
Ah  Loo— Exhortation  to  Isabella — Climate  of  Macao — Severe 
Illness  of  Mrs.  Shuck — Hi-r  Feelings  —  Thoughts  of  sending  her 
Children  Home  —  Robbers  cause  the  Death  of  a  Chinaman  —  Rich 
Orphan  —  Class  under  Instruction  —  Remarks  by  the  Compiler  on 
the  Education  of  the  Children  of  Missionaries. Ill 


CHAPTER  VII. 

1839  —  Erroneous  Views  of  Missionary  Life  corrected  —  Mrs.  Shuck's 
Correspondence  continued  —  Incident  in  the  Life  of  her  oldest 
Child  —  A  Caution  for  him  —  Mrs.  Shuck's  School  —  Cost  of  sup- 
porting it—  Reference  to  the  Death  of  Lucius  —  Openings  for  Use- 
fuliietw  in  Macao — Visiting  a  Village — Mr.  Shurk  commences 
preaching  in  Chinese  —  Visit  of  Mr.  S.  and  Family  to  Hong  Kong 
—  Probability  of  Mr.  Shuck's  Return  to  America —  Anticipations 
since  realized  —  Her  Illness  —  Death  of  a  Young  l.nily  converted 
through  her  Instrumentality 135 


CHAPTER    VIII. 

1840 —  Mrs.  Shuck's  Health  bad  —  Her  Correspondence  continued- 
Dr.  Diver's  Letter  concerning  her  Sickness  —  War  anticipated  • 


CONTENTS.  11 

Letter  from  Mrs.  8.  to  her  Sister  Pti  «r\n  —  Resignation  —  Dr.  Divert 
•croud  Letter — Mrs.  Shuck's  Improving  Health — HIT  Piety  — 
Cost  of  Living  —  She  loves  the  Concert  of  Prayer  for  Missions  — 
Letter  to  Isah.  lla — Fervent  Exhortation  —  Resolutions— Arrival 
of  the  British  Fleet —  Isabella's  Conversion —  Susan's  Marriage — 
Her  Grandpapa's  Death — Good  Advice  to  Isabella — Pleasing 
Anticipation*. 148 

CHAPTER    IX. 

1841  —  Remarks  on  Mrs.  Shuck's  Sickness  and  Recovery  —  Her  School 

—  War  between  England  and  China  —  Prospect  of   preaching  the 
Gospel  without  Molestation— Chinese  Teacher  a  ho|wful  Inquir- 
er—  Letter  to  Robert,  simple  and  affectionate  —  Mrs.  Sinn  It's  So- 
licitude nnd  Efforts  for  the  Salvation  of  her  Sistrrs  and  Brothers  — 
Remarks  en  the  Marriage  of  her  Sisters — A  Box  of  Presents  — 
Birth  of  her  Daughter,  Henrietta  Layton  —  Reasons  for  the  Name 

—  Friends  in  Macao  —  Contrast  between  China  and  Lancaster.  166 


CHAPTER  X. 

1842-3  —  Removal  to  Hong  Kong  —  Reasons  for  removing — Mr.  8. 
raises  Money  in  erect  Chapels — Becomes  assistant  Editor  of  a 
Paper —  Prospects  of  Usefulness  —  Mr.  Dean's  Arrival  —  Mr*.  Shuck 
pleased  in  Hong  Kong —  China  opening  for  the  Gospel  —  Heat  of 
the  Climate  —  Letter  to  Isabella — Various  Reflections  —  Letter 
from  Dr.  Diver  to  Mr.  Hall  —  Baptisms —  Brightening  Proxpecta  — 
Increase  of  MM.  Shuck's  domestic  Cares  —  Denth  of  Mrs.  Dean  — 
Labors  of  Ihe  Missionaries—  Mrs.  S.'s  Health  poor  —  Proof  of  het 
Devotion  to  Mission!  —  Affectionate  Disposition  —  Sickness  of 
Netty  —  Mr.  Shuck's  Postscript  —  Destitution  of  the  English  Sol- 
dier*' Wivea. 178 


CHAPTER   XI. 

1844  —  Clonintr  Year  of  Mr*.  Shuck's  Life —  Her  Correspondence  rnn- 
tinued—  Manner  of  spending  her  Time  —  Progress  in  the  Chines* 
Language  —  Her  Youthful  Appearance  —  The  Frigate  Brnndy wine 
—  Mr.  W. ill  hall's  Illness  —  Beautiful  Extract  —  Temptations  of 
Missionaries —  Allusion  to  Mr*.  Dean's  Death  —  Solemn  Anticipa- 
tions—  Remarks  concerning  Ihem  —  Contributions  to  Mr*,  ^huck'i 
School —  Increase  of  it  —  Obstacles  to  Female  Education —  Indis- 
position to  Writing  —  Opening  School  room  —  Lout  Letter  to  her 


12  CONTENTS. 

Father —  Arrival  of  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Derail  —  Her  Father's  Picture  — 
Last  Letter  to  her  Family  —  Religious  Enjoyment  —  Note  to  Mr*. 
Keeling  —  Her  last  Letter  —  Remarks. 200 


CHAPTER    XII. 

Brief  Sketch  of  the  Rise,  Progress,  and  Condition  of  the  Chinese 
Baptist  Mission  —  Baptisms  —  Encouraging  Prospects  —  Mrs. 
Shuck's  Presentiment  of  her  Death — Her  Preparation  for  it  — 
Mr.  Shuck's  Letter  announcing  her  Death  —  Extracu  from  Obit- 
uary Notices  —  Dr.  Devan's  Letter  to  Mr.  Hall  —  Mr.  Walthall's 
Letter  —  Conclusion  of  her  Funeral  Sermon  in  Richmond  — 
Mr.  Heeling's  Tribute  to  Mrs.  Shuck's  Character  —  Poetry  writ- 
ten on  seeing  Mr.  Shuck's  Sons  in  New  York 221 


CONCLUSION. 

Mrs.  Shuck's  Personal  Appearance — Her  Natural  Disposition  — 
Her  Mental  Qualities — Quickness  of  Perception  —  Notes  of  a 
Sermon  —  Literary  Attainments  —  Her  Religious  Character, 
symmetrical. 947 


CHAPTER  I. 


Henrietta  Hall's  Birthplace  —  Parentage  —  Religious  Training  —  Ed- 
ucation —  Mrs.  Little's  Letter  —  Her  Religious  Awakening  —  The 
Lancaster  Camp-meeting — Henrietta's  Conversion  —  Baptism  — 
Her  Mother's  Death  —  Her  Father's  Removal  to  Richmond  —  She 
was  placed  in  Mr.  Reeling's  Seminary  —  Her  first  Missionary  Im- 
pressions —  Her  Engagement  to  Mr.  Shuck  —  Vindication  of  Chris- 
tian Missions,  and  her  Motives  —  Her  Letter  to  Sunday  School 
Scholars  —  Her  Marriage  —  Missionaries  set  apart  —  Mrs.  Shuck's 
Trip  to  Boston  —  Her  farewell  Letter  to  her  Father  —  Mr.  Hall's 
Letter  and  parting  Advice  to  bis  Daughter. 

THE  peninsula,  lying  between  the  Rappahan- 
nock  and  Potomac  Rivers,  in  the  north  eastern 
part  of  the  state  of  Virginia,  is  generally  known 
as  the  "  Northern  Neck."  It  is  distinguished  as 
the  birthplace  of  three  Presidents  of  the  United 
States  —  Washington,  Madison,  and  Monroe.  In 
the  eastern  extremity  of  the  "  Neck,"  in  the 
county  of  Lancaster,  within  a  few  miles  of  the 
Chesapeake  Bay,  is  situated  the  little  village  of 
Kilmarnock.  Here  was  born,  Oct.  the  28th, 
1817,  Henrietta  Hall,  (afterwards  Mrs.  Shuck.) 
Her  parentage  on  both  sides  was  highly  respec- 
table. Her  father,  the  Rev.  Addison  Hall,  was,  in 
his  early  years,  a  successful  lawyer.  For  several 
sessions  he  represented  his  county  in  the  state 
legislature  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  his  con- 
stituents. Mr.  Hall's  mother  was  a  lady  of  de- 
cided genius.  She  wrote  two  poems  of  no  small 
2 


14  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

merit ;  one  on  the  death  of  the  Rev.  Lewis  Luns- 
ford,  and  the  other  on  that  of  her  brother-in-l;i\r, 
the  Rev.  Samuel  L.  Straughin,  both  eminent 
Baptist  ministers,  her  endeared  pastors,  who  were 
called  to  their  reward  in  the  maturity  of  their 
years,  and  in  the  zenith  of  their  usefulness. 
With  early  culture,  and  favorable  circumstances, 
she  would  have  been  a  brilliant  ornament  of  her 
sex.  The  maiden  name  of  Henrietta's  mother 
was  Susan  Edmonds.  She  was  a  daughter  of 
Col.  Elias  Edmonds  of  Lancaster  county  —  a  gen- 
tleman held  in  deserved  estimation  by  his  fellow- 
citizens. 

Mr.  and  Mrs.  Hall  were  both  baptized,  while 
young,  by  the  Rev.  S.  L.  Straughan,  and  admit- 
ted into  the  fellowship  of  the  Morattico  B-iptist 
church.  They,  like  Zacharias  and  Elizabeth, 
"  were  both  righteous  before  God,  walking  in  all 
the  commandments  and  ordinances  of  the  Lord 
blameless."  Henrietta  was  nurtured  in  the  lap 
of  piety.  Her  parents  were  deeply  impressed 
with  the  importance  of  training  up  their  children 
for  usefulness  and  for  heaven.  Her  mind  and 
heart  were  cultivated  with  tender  solicitude  and 
untiring  assiduity.  To  her  infant  ears  the  voice 
of  prayer  and  praise  was  familiar.  She  grew 
up  with  the  deep  and  abiding  impressions  which 
the  family  altar,  and  the  family  Bible,  and  sanc- 
tuary observances  were  adapted  to  make  on  her 
sensitive  mind. 

Our  acquaintance  with  Henrietta  Hall  com- 
menced in  the  close  of  the  year  1825.  She  was 
then  a  little  more  than  eight  years  old  ;  and  a 
bright  and  lovely  child  she  was.  The  interview 
Beems  to  have  made  a  durable  impression  on  her 


MRS.  LITTLE'S  LETTER.  15 

memory.  In  her  last  letter  to  us  —  the  last  which 
she  wrote  —  she  referred  to  it  with  a  vivid  recollec- 
tion and  a  lively  interest. 

Fortunately  for  Henrietta,  her  devoted  father 
entertained  enlarged  and  liberal  views  on  the  sub- 
ject of  female  instruction.  He  was  desirous  to 
give  his  daughters  a  solid  and  useful  education. 
In  her  fourteenth  year,  Henrietta  was  sent  to 
Fredericksburg,  and  placed  in  the  school  of  Mrs. 
Little,  a  lady  of  high  reputation  as  a  teacher. 
How  well  she  deserved  this  reputation  the  fol- 
lowing letter,  addressed  by  her  to  the  Rev.  A. 
Hall,  since  the  death  of  his  daughter,  clearly  in- 
dicates. 

"  Dear  Sir, 

I  am  truly  happy  to  hear  that  a  memoir  of 
your  lamented  daughter  is  in  a  state  of  prepara- 
tion. Her  active  virtues,  and  devoted  missionary 
labors,  will  render  such  a  memoir  a  valuable  gift 
to  the  public,  as  well  as  a  cherished  memorial  to 
her  friends. 

Most  gladly  would  I  furnish  any  documents 
in  my  power,  which  might  aid  in  preparing  the 
biography  of  one  whose  memory  is  so  dear  to 
me.  I  wish  I  could  recall  more  vividly  the  cir- 
cumstances to  which  you  refer,  which  occurred 
while  your  daughter  was  a  member  of  my  school 
and  family. 

As  a  pupil  she  was  very  diligent  in  her  studies, 
and  blameless  in  her  course  of  conduct.  Her 
mind  was  sprightly,  and  her  disposition  ardent, 
enthusiastic,  and  sincere.  She  possessed  strong 
social  affections,  and  was  universally  beloved  by 
her  classmates.  Although  she  had  not  then 


16  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

'  chosen  the  good  part,'  she  was  not  unmindful 
of  the  necessity  of  so  doing,  and  it  occurred  to 
me  that  the  best  opportunity  of  directing  her 
serious  attention  to  matters  of  so  great  moment 
would  be  by  close  personal  conversation,  on  the 
subject  of  her  highest  interests. 

With  a  view  to  her  benefit,  as  well  as  that  of 
other  of  my  pupils,  I  had  been  accustomed  daily 
to  write  something  new  and  striking  on  the  black- 
board, generally  a  text  of  Scripture,  in  the  form 
of  a  question.  On  one  occasion  the  question 
was,  "  Where  shall  I  be  a  hundred  years  hence?  " 
The  pupils  were  requested  to  give  an  answer  to 
me  privately,  after  due  consideration  and  solemn 
reflection. 

The  effect  produced  on  the  mind  of  Henrietta 
was  deep  and  pungent  —  her  words  I  cannot  at 
this  distant  period  recall,  but  the  intensity  of  her 
emotion  convinced  me  that  the  Lord  himself  had 
directed  the  arrow  to  its  mark.  She  seemed 
never  afterwards  to  forget  that  she  was  a  proba- 
tioner for  an  endless  state  of  existence  beyond 
the  grave,  though  she  did  not  then  have  clear  and 
just  ideas  of  the  depravity  of  her  own  heart ; 
there  was,  therefore,  no  change  in  her  outward 
character  or  conduct. 

Literary  pursuits  chiefly  occupied  her  time. 
She  was  ambitious  to  excel  in  all  her  studies 
from  her  regard  for  you,  whom  as  a  father  she 
highly  honored.  She  seemed  determined  to  exert 
herself  to  deserve  your  approbation  and  affection. 

During  her  vacation,  as  you  know,  she  was 
made  a  partaker  of  the  heavenly  gift,  and  it  was 
gratifying  to  me  to  learn  that  her  first  serious 
impressions  were  received  in  my  school.  I  never 


CAMP-MEETING.  17 

before  so  deeply  felt  the  importance  of  combining 
religious  with  literary  instructions,  and  doing  all 
to  the  glory  of  God. 

Your  daughter  has  now  completed  her  pilgrim- 
age,  and  gone  to  her  long  home.  But  she  still 
lives  in  the  hearts  of  surviving  friends,  who  can 
rejoicingly  follow  her  with  the  eye  of  faith,  and 
behold  her  walking  with  God,  '  high  in  salvation 
and  the  climes  of  bliss.' 

To  you,  my  dear  sir,  what  an  honor,  what  a 
consolation,  to  have  had  a  child  so  spiritually 
engaged,  so  useful,  and  now  so  highly  exalted! 

Permit  me  to  mingle  my  sympathies  with  yours, 
and  subscribe  myself 

Very  truly  your  friend, 

A.  J.  LITTLE." 

The  summer  of  1831  is  memorable  for  the  reli- 
gious revivals  which  prevailed  among  the  churches, 
of  all  evangelical  Christian  denominations,  in 
Virginia.  Wherever  the  gospel  was  faithfully 
preached,  a  blessing  descended  from  Heaven. 
Thousands,  of  all  classes  of  society,  were  joyfully 
converted  to  Christ,  and  added  to  the  churches. 
The  Baptists  of  the  Northern  Neck  resolved,  after 
prayer  and  consultation,  to  hold  a  camp-meeting 
in  the  month  of  August,  in  Lancaster  county. 
This  was  the  first  meeting  of  the  kind  ever  held 
by  the  churches  of  the  Baptist  denomination  in 
this  part  of  the  state.  Many,  especially  among 
the  older  brethren,  doubted  the  expediency  of  ap- 
pointing such  a  meeting;  they  yielded,  however, 
to  the  wish  of  the  majority.  The  meeting  was 
attended  by  the  Rev.  John  Kerr,  who  has  since 
closed  his  useful  labors,  the  Rev.  J.  B.  Taylor, 
2* 


18  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

•'•       iBr         **' 

the  Rev.  E.  Ball,  and  other  acceptable  and  effi- 
cient preachers  of  the  word.  We  went  to  the 
encampment  intensely  anxious  as  to  the  results  of 
the  meeting.  During  the  first  afternoon  of  the 
service,  our  doubts  were  succeeded  by  confidence, 
and  our  solicitude  by  joy.  It  was  apparent  that 
God  was  with  us.  The  compiler  has  enjoyed 
the  privilege  of  attending  many  religious  meet- 
ings where  the  divine  blessing  has  been  richly 
bestowed ;  but  he  doubts  whether  he  has  ever 
seen  one  the  results  of  which  have  been  so  inter- 
esting, so  important,  so  glorious,  as  of  this.  A 
large  proportion  of  the  converts  were  heads  of 
families  —  men  of  intelligence,  respectability,  and 
influence,  who  have  been  an  honor  to  their  pro- 
fession, and  pillars  in  the  house  of  God.  An  im- 
pulse was  then  given  to  the  cause  of  Christ  in 
the  Northern  Neck  which  is  felt  to  the  present 
day,  and  which,  we  trust,  may  be  felt,  with  in- 
creasing power,  to  the  end  of  time. 

Henrietta  Hall,  having  returned  from  Frede- 
ricksburg  to  pass  the  vacation  at  home,  was  among 
the  first  converts  at  the  meeting.  Her  convictions 
of  sin  were  pungent,  her  feelings  deep,  and  her 
deliverance  joyful.  O,  it  was  a  season  of  over- 
whelming interest  and  gratitude,  when  so  many 
pious  parents  were  permitted  to  embrace  their 
children  in  the  bright  anticipation  of  meeting 
them  before  the  throne  of  God,  to  part  no  more 
forever ! 

On  the  2d  of  Sept.,  1831,  this  young  convert, 
not  quite  fourteen  years  old,  was  baptized  by  the 
compiler  of  this  Memoir,  then  the  pastor  of  the 
Morattico  Baptist  church.  Her  experience  was 
clear,  scriptural,  and  satisfactory.  I  well  remem- 


HER  MOTHER'S  DEATH.  19 

her  that  she  ascribed  her  first  permanent  religious 
impressions  to  the  solemn  question  propounded 
to  her  by  her  pious  teacher,  Mrs.  Little,  "  Where 
will  you  be  a  hundred  years  hence?"  It  awak- 
ened in  her  bosom  serious  meditation,  a  sense  of 
accountability  to  God,  and  a  conviction  of  guilt 
and  danger,  which,  by  the  divine  blessing,  led  her 
to  repentance,  and  prepared  her  for  a  happy  re- 
ception of  the  gospel.  In  obeying  the  Saviour's 
positive  ordinance  of  baptism,  she  obtained,  what 
all  who  properly  obey  it  will  find,  "  the  answer 
of  a  good  conscience  toward  God."  In  her  last 
letter,  written  but  a  few  hours  before  her  depart- 
ure from  earth,  she  refers  with  manifest  delight 
to  the  event.  "  'Twas  you,  my  dear  brother 
Jeter,  who  led  me  into  the  liquid  grave.  O ! 
how  well  do  I  remember  that  day,  that  precious 
day,  and  the  dear  friends,  (some,  yea,  many  of 
them  now  departed,)  who  accompanied  me  to  the 
water's  edge." 

This  had  been  to  Henrietta  a  bright  and  joyful 
year,  but  it  was  to  close  in  gloom.  Her  fond  and 
pious  mother,  after  a  brief  and  violent  illness, 
departed  this  life  on  the  26th  of  Dec.,  1831,  at 
"  Waverly,"  the  family  residence  in  Lancaster. 
The  loss  of  a  mother,  at  all  times  one  of  the 
severest  bereavements  which  can  befall  a  child, 
was  to  Henrietta,  just  then  arrived  at  the  period 
of  life  at  which  maternal  counsel  and  supervision 
are  most  needed,  peculiarly  afflictive.  Being  the 
oldest  of  the  children,  on  her  devolved  the  duty 
of  taking  ;i  maternal  oversight  of  her  little  broth- 
ers and  sisters.  How  faithfully  she  discharged 
this  duty  will  appear  in  the  sequel.  This  unex- 
pected bereavement  made  an  ineffaceable  impres- 


20  MEMOIR  OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

sion  on  Henrietta's  heart.  From  this  time  the 
world  seemed  to  have  but  little  power  to  charm 
her ;  and  the  hope  of  meeting  her  dear  mother 
in  heaven,  which  grew  into  a  bright  and  joyous 
anticipation,  was  never  long  absent  from  her 
mind.  The  following  extract  from  her  Journal, 
penned  during  her  long  voyage  to  the  East,  may 
be  appropriately  introduced  here  in  illustration  of 
this  remark. 


"  Dec.  26,  (1835.)  This  day  brings  with  it  the 
recollection  of  one  painful  event.  On  this  day 
four  years  ago  I  experienced  the  loss  of  one  of 
the  kindest  and  most  affectionate  of  mothers. 
This  indeed  caused  me  to  shed  tears  of  sorrow. 
I  was  at  once  totally  deprived  of  her  kind  atten- 
tion, which  had  been  bestowed  on  me  from  my 
childhood.  Life  no  longer  appeared  joyous,  but 
was  clothed  in  gloom  and  melancholy.  1  looked 
around  for  comfort,  but,  alas  !  none  was  to  be 
found.  Five  helpless  children,  a  bereaved  hus- 
band, and  weeping  servants,  were  all  that  met 
my  eye.  Her  vacant  chair  reminded  me  of  the 
many  delightful  seasons  I  had  enjoyed  in  sitting 
by  her  side,  and  listening  to  her  motherly  advice. 
But  now  these  moments  had  fled  forever — her 
voice  was  still  in  death  —  and  she,  no  doubt,  had 
already  clasped  to  her  fond  bosom  her  dear  little 
babes,  who  had  gone  before  her  to  the  abodes  of 
the  blest.  But  why  should  I  indulge  these  pain- 
ful thoughts?  It  was,  I  am  now  certain,  all  for 
the  best.  How  infinitely  happier  is  she  tlnn 
earth  could  make  her!  She  is  done  with  dull 
mortality,  and  having  met  her  Saviour,  is  now 
feasting  on  his  smiles.  Nor  would  I  call  her 


HER  MOTHER'S  DEATH.  21 

back  to  this  vain  world  were  it  in  my  power. 
Ah!  no;  rest  on,  sweet  mother;  I  shall  only  be 
denied  thy  endearing  society  a  few  more  fleeting 
years  —  then  shall  I  meet  with  thee,  and  dear  little 
brothers,  in  the  mansions  of  glory,  to  sing  the 
song  of  the  redeemed  —  then  shall  I  be  freed  from 
earth  with  all  its  dull  concerns. 

And,  dearest  father,  let  us  follow  the  footsteps 
of  your  beloved  consort,  and  my  devoted  mother. 
We  know  how  she  lived  —  we  know  how  she  died. 
Her  path  was  one  that  shone  more  and  more 
brightly.  Though  I  was  not  by  her  (she  was  at 
school)  to  see  her  bid  adieu  to  scenes  below,  yet 
she  did  not  forget  her  absent  Henrietta.  You,  no 
doubt,  remember  her  last  message  to  me  — '  Prove 
faithful  to  your  Creator,  and  meet  me  in  heaven.' 
How  important  every  word !  how  tender  and 
affectionate !  Do,  dear  pa.,  pray  that  I  may  in- 
deed '  prove  faithful '  —  that  I  may,  as  she  did, 
adorn  the  profession  which  I  have  made.  You 
cannot,  my  parent,  imagine  my  feelings  when  I 
think  of  our  next  meeting.  O !  that  we,  with 
all  the  dear  children,  may  meet  my  mother  in  the 
realms  of  unfading  bliss.  It  seems  that  I  cannot 
wait  for  death  —  it  appears  too  long  to  be  away 
from  heaven.  I  feel  ready  to  exclaim,  '  O,  for 
some  dove's  extended  wings  ! '  But  this  cannot 
be  —  I  must  remain  below  a  little  longer  —  I  must 
be  active  a  little  while  in  my  blessed  Saviour's 
cause  —  I  must  endeavor  to  tell  the  dying  heathen 
the  story  of  Jesus,  that  they  too  may  know  how 
to  praise,  and  how  to  serve  him.  Yes,  let  me 
live  as  long  as  God  shall  see  fit,  and  let  me  be 
eminently  useful  while  I  live." 

About  this  period,  (1832,)  Col.  Hall  (he  held 


22  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    iHUCK. 

this  rank  in  the  militia)  determined  to  abandon 
the  lucrative  profession  of  law,  and  devote  him- 
self to  the  work  of  the  Christian  ministry.  In 
the  beginning  of  1835,  having  received  the  ap- 
pointment of  general  agent  of  the  American  Colo- 
nization Society,  for  the  state  of  Virginia,  he 
removed  with  his  family  to  the  city  of  Richmond. 
Here  Miss  H  ill,  with  her  fuher  and  step-mother, 
became  members  of  the  First  Baptist  Church, 
then  under  the  pastoral  charge  of  the  Rev.  J.  T. 
Hinton.  She  entered  the  female  seminary  taught 
by  the  Rev.  H.  Keeling  and  his  1  idy ;  and  ap- 
plied herself  assiduously  to  her  studies.  On 
leaving  the  institution,  she  received,  unsolicited, 
testimonials  of  the  most  satisfactory  character. 
Between  her  and  her  pious  teachers  a  friendship 
was  fanned  which  flourished,  as  the  reader  will 
find  in  the  progress  of  this  work,  till  the  close  of 
her  valuable  life. 

Miss  Hall,  from  the  commencement  of  her  reli- 
gious life,  seems  to  have  cherished  the  mission- 
ary spirit.  This  spirit  she  wis  likely  to  imbibe. 
Her  disposition,  ardent,  bordering  on  the  romantic 
—  her  reading  —  her  associations  —  the  frequent 
conversations  on  Christian  missions  in  her  father's 
family  —  and,  above  all,  her  fervent  piety,  would 
have  led  an  intelligent  observer  to  expect,  that 
she  would  have  a  desire  to  emulate  the  example 
of  the  devoted  and  excellent  women,  whose  labors 
and  sufferings,  in  the  missionary  enterprise,  have 
awakened,  throughout  the  Christian  world,  so 
lively  an  interest,  and  so  deep  a  sympathy. 

The  Rev.  J.  Lewis  Shuck,  a  student  of  the 
Virginia  Baptist  Seminary,  now  Richmond  Col- 
lege, having  been  accepted,  by  the  Board  of  the 


LETTER   TO    MRS.    KEELING.  23 

Baptist  Triennial  Convention,  as  a  missionary  to 
China,  invited  Miss  Hall  to  accompany  him,  as 
the  companion  of  his  toils  and  the  sharer  of  his 
joys  and  sorrows.  To  this  proposal,  after  anxious 
deliberation,  consultation  with  her  friends,  and 
earnest  prayer  for  divine  guidance,  she  assented. 
In  anticipation  of  her  union  with  Mr.  Shuck,  the 
following  letter  —  the  earliest  of  her  letters  which 
have  come  into  our  hands  —  was  written  to  her 
friend,  Mrs.  Keeling. 

«'  RICHMOND,  JUNE  2~>,  1835. 

If  I  mistake  not,  my  beloved  teacher  promised 
to  write  me  a  long  letter ;  but  th  it  wished-for 
favor  has  not  yet  arrived.  I  hope,  however,  it  is 
not  far  distant.  I  do,  indeed,  need  instruction, 
and  I  wish  to  receive  it  from  you,  because  I  am 
well  convinced  it  would  be  altogether  correct. 

You  said,  yesterday,  you  were  afraid  I  did  not 
love  you  because  you  spoke  so  freely  to  me. 
Quite  the  contrary  —  I  love  you  but  the  more. 
And  when  you  or  Mr.  Keeling  discover  any  thing 
improper  in  my  deportment,  whether  in  or  out  of 
school,  do  not,  for  a  moment,  hesitate  to  tell  me 
of  it,  so  that  I  may  guard  against  the  same 
another  time.  Rely  on  it,  I  will  take  it  kindly. 
'  Those  indeed,  are  our  friends  who  tell  us  of 
our  fiults.' 

You  seem  to  think  hardly  of  me  for  not  talking 
to  you  on  some  certain  subjects.  No  doubt,  you 
know  whence  proceeds  my  backwardness. 

The  cause  of  missions,  dearest  teacher,  lies 
near  my  heart.  I  feel  greatly  for  the  poor,  dying 
heathen.  The  sincere  prayer  of  my  heart  is, 
O  that  I  were  qualified  to  become  a  missionary 


24  MEMOIR    OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

of  the  cross !  How  gladly  would  I  enter  the  field 
of  labor,  although  it  would  cause  torrents  of 
tears  to  roll  down  my  cheeks.  Many  a  pang  of 
sorrow  would  my  bosom  feel  to  part  with  a  be- 
loved father,  kind  mother,  dear  sisters  and 
brothers,  who  are  dearer  to  me  than  all  the  world 
beside.  Yet,  if  by  parting  with  all  that's  dear 
by  the  ties  of  nature,  I  could  promote  the  cause 
of  Christ  in  heathen  lands,  I  would,  leaving  them 
in  the  hands  of  an  allwise  Protector,  take  the 
parting  hand,  and  amongst  the  benighted  heathen 
would  I  labor  until  death.  And  if,  at  last,  I 
should  be  the  means  of  rescuing  one  heathen 
from  eternal  woe,  I  should  be  amply  compensated 
for  all  the  difficulties  and  trials  which  I  might 
have  to  undergo.  I  am  well  convinced,  dearest 
teacher,  that  the  life  of  a  missionary  is  by  no 
means  an  easy  one ;  to  the  comfort  and  ease  of 
this  world  she  is  a  stranger ;  but  she  enjoys, 
what,  in  my  estimation,  is  far  better,  the  presence 
of  the  Most  High. 

When  you  write,  tell  me  what  books  you  think 
it  would  be  advisable  for  me  to  read.  I  am  very 
fond  of  reading,  and  will  take  care  to  peruse  with 
great  attention  all  you  mention.  With  whom  do 
you  think  I  should  chiefly  associate  ?  I  ask  these 
questions  because  I  know  you  to  be  a  woman  of 
judgment,  and  I  can,  with  perfect  safety,  do  any 
thing  you  or  Mr.  K.  bid  me. 

I  must  request  you  and  Mr.  K.  to  remember 
me  at  a  throne  of  grace.  Do,  my  teachers,  pray 
that  I  may  be  useful  in  the  work  of  the  Lord. 

I  am  yours  forever,  dear  teacher,  in  the  strong- 
est ties  of  affection. 

HENRIETTA." 


DUTY   TO    THE    HEATHEH.  25 

We  are  aware  that  to  many  persons,  and  some  of 
these  professors  of  a  spiritual  Christianity,  the 
feelings  and  sentiments  displayed  in  the  above 
letter  will  appear  enthusiastic  and  visionary. 
The  heathen,  in  their  judgment,  are  in  a  state  of 
safe  and  happy  ignorance ;  and  those  who  would 
disturb  their  repose,  by  proclaiming  in  their  ears 
the  divine  denunciations  against  sin,  are  pestilent 
intruders.  With  such  persons  let  us  reason  a 
moment.  If  the  Bible  is  a  revelation  from  God, 
it  is  supremely  important  that  a  knowledge  of  it 
should  be  spread  among  all  nations.  On  this 
principle  Christ  and  his  apostles  acted.  The 
last  solemn  command  of  the  risen  Saviour  to  his 
chosen  disciples  was,  to  proclaim  the  gospel 
among  all  nations,  and  to  every  creature.  The 
rich  legacy  which  he  bequeathed  to  his  favorites, 
was  the  privilege  of  filling  the  world  with  the 
light  of  salvation.  And  faithfully  did  they  obey 
the  command,  and  well  did  they  appreciate  the 
privilege.  They  set  themselves,  in  good  earnest, 
to  preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature  under 
heaven.  And  so  deeply  were  they  impressed 
with  the  magnitude  and  importance  of  their  mis- 
sion, that  they  cheerfully  performed  the  most 
arduous  toils,  and  endured  the  most  cruel  perse- 
cutions, in  its  performance. 

It  would  betray  an  ignorance  of  human  nature 
to  suppose  that  in  one  so  young,  and  of  tempera- 
ment so  ardent,  as  Miss  Hall,  romantic  feelings 
did  not,  in  some  degree,  mingle  with  high  and 
holy  motives.  Bat  that,  in  the  main,  her  views 
were  enlightened,  her  principles  sound,  and  hei 
affections  pure  and  spiritual,  her  subsequent  zeal 
sacrifices,  and  labors  in  the  Redeemer's  cause 
3 


* 
26  MEMOIR    OP    MRS.    SHUCK. 

continued  without  abatement  to  the  very  close  of 
.life,  her  amiable  and  consistent  deportment,  and 
.her  joyous  anticipation  of  heaven,  when  brought 
by  disease  to  the  verge  of  the  grave,  furnish  most 
decisive  proofs. 

Miss  Hall  was  married  to  the  Rev.  J.  Lewis 
.Shuck,  Sept  8th,  1835,  by  the  Rev.  H.  Keeling, 
preparatory  to  their  immediate  departure  for  the 
.East.  At  the  time  of  her  marriage,  Mrs.  Shuck 
was  not  quite  eighteen  years  old.  If  it  should 
be  thought  that  she  was  too  young  and  inexpe- 
rienced to  enter  on  the  responsible  duties  of  a 
missionary's  wife,  let  it  be  considered  that  this 
objection,  whatever  might  have  been  its  weight, 
was  every  day  diminishing  until  it  entirely  dis- 
appeared. The  sainted  Mrs.  Newell,  whose 
career  was  so  brief  and  so  brilliant,  was  only 
nineteen  years  old  when  she  died  in  the  Isle  of 
France. 

Frorn  the  time  of  her  removal  to  the  city  of 
Richmond,  Miss  Hall  had  been  a  diligent  teacher 
in  the  Sunday  School  connected  with  the  First 
Baptist  Church.  A  few  days  before  her  depart- 
ure to  the  East,  she  addressed  the  following  very 
affectionate  letter  to  her  pupils. 

"Very  Dear  Children, 

Although  my  time  is  extremely  limited,  I 
cannot  think  of  parting  with  you  without  address- 
ing you  a  few  farewell  lines.  The  manner  in 
which  you  have  received  my  feeble  instruction, 
and  the  whole  of  your  deportment,  have  pleased 
me  inexpressibly.  This  pleasure  I  shall  no  more 
enjoy  on  earth.  I  must  soon  bid  you  a  final 
adieu.  The  regard  I  feel  for  you  all  prompts 


SET   APART    AS   A    MISSIONARY.  27 

me  to  seize  the  present  opportunity,  to  exhort 
you  to  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come.  '  Seek  ye 
the  Lord  while  he  may  be  found,  call  ye  upon 
him  while  he  is  near.'  Youth  is  the  most  suita- 
ble time  to  serve  the  Lord;  then  let  me  exhort 
you  to  give  your  hearts  to  the  Redeemer.  Many 
precious  promises  are  made  to  the  young.  I 
shall  in  a  short  time  be  traversing  the  pathless 
ocean,  encompassed  by  dangers,  far  from  the 
paternal  roof,  and  the  much  loved  scenes  of  my 
childhood,  and -far  from  you,  my  dear  scholars; 
but  I  shall  not  cease  to  think  of  you,  yes,  I  shall 
often  try  to  make  intercession  for  you  at  the 
mercy  seat.  Although  in  the  course  of  a  few 
months  oceans  will  roll  between  us,  sometimes 
think  of  your  youthful  teacher,  and  remember 
how  ardently  she  longs  for  your  salvation. 

Love  to  the  souls  of  the  poor  perishing  heathen 
constrains  me  to  forsake  the  innumerable  enjoy- 
ments of  my  own  dear,  lovely  country,  and  take 
up  my  abode  in  a  land  of  moral  darkness.  I  go 
cheerfully,  yes,  I  long  to  be  pointing  the  wretched 
idolaters  to  the  Lamb  of  God,  which  alone  can 
take  away  sin.  And  now  I  must  bid  you  an 
affectionate  farewell.  Our  next  meeting  will  be 
in  the  presence  of  the  great  Judge  of  heaven 
and  earth.  Farewell,  my  dear  girls,  farewell,  on 
earth  to  meet  no  morel 

O,  may  we  meet  in  heaven  above, 
Where  all  U  joy,  and  peace,  and  lore. 

Your  affectionate  friend, 

HENRIETTA." 

On  the  10th  of  September,  1835,  the  Rev.  J. 
Lewis  Shuck,  and  the  Rev.  Robert  D.  Davenport, 


28  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

with  their  companions,  were  solemnly  set  apart 
in  the  First  Baptist  Church,  Richmond,  to  the 
work  of  missions  in  the  East.  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Shuck  were  destined  for  China,  and  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Davenport  for  Siam.  The  religious  ser- 
vices on  the  occasion  are  represented  as  having 
been  peculiarly  interesting  and  affecting.  The 
ministers  present  were  brethren  Ball,  Hume, 
Hatchett,  Nelson,  Taylor,  and  Keeling.  At  the 
close  of  the  public  exercises,  the  pastors,  members 
of  the  churches,  and  most  of  the  large  and  deeply- 
impressed  congregation,  gave  to  the  beloved  mis- 
sionaries the  parting  hand  —  to  Mrs.  Shuck  it  was 
the  final  adieu. 

The  following  day  the  missionaries  embarked 
for  Boston.  They  were  followed  by  the  warm 
affection,  tender  sympathies,  and  earnest  prayers 
of  many  Christian  hearts.  The  following  letter 
gives  an  account  of  the  journey  to  Boston,  and 
the  arrangements  for  the  Eastern  voyage. 

"BOSTON,  SEPT.  18,  1835. 
Very  Dear  Sister  Keeling, 

According  to  promise  I  have  seated  myself 
for  the  purpose  of  writing  you  a  short  letter ;  and 

1  dare  say  it  will  be  gratifying  to  all  our  dear 
friends  in  Richmond  to  hear  from  us.     We  had 
a  pleasant  trip  down  the  James  River,  on  board 
the  steamer  Patrick  Henry,  the  day  we  left  Rich- 
mond.    Peculiar  emotions  thrilled  our  bosoms  as 
the  '  hills,  and   dales,'   and    fields,  of  our    native 
state,  faded  in  the  distance.     Still  we  were  cheer- 
ful   and    happy,    and    rejoiced    together.      About 

2  o'clock    we  arrived    in   Hampton  Roads,   and 
removed  ourselves  and  our  baggage  on  board  the 


LETTER   TO    HER    FATHER.  29 

steamer  Pocahontas.  We  travelled  all  night, 
and  the  bay  (Chesapeake)  being  very  rough,  we 
were  nearly  all  seasick.  I  never  was  sicker  in 
my  life.  We  arrived  in  Baltimore  the  next  day 
by  8  o'clock.  We  spent  Saturday  and  Sunday 
there.  Mr.  S.  preached  in  the  Calvert  St. 
Church  in  the  morning,  and  in  the  Sharp  St. 
Church  in  the  afternoon.  At  night  we  heard  a 
sermon  from  the  Rev.  Mr.  R.,  a  Presbyterian 
missionary,  just  returned  from  Bombay. 

Having  been  kindly  entertained  in  B.,  by  brother 
C.  and  his  family,  we  left  at  6  o'clock  on  Monday 
morning  for  Philadelphia;  at  which  place  we 
arrived  at  3  o'clock  P.  M.,  and  were  hospitably 
received  by  brother  K.  and  his  wife.  We  left  P. 
Tuesday  morning  at  6  o'clock,  and  arrived  in 
New  York,  by  steamboat  and  railroad,  at  2 
o'clock  the  same  day.  After  viewing  the  city  a 
short  time,  we  went  on  board  the  steamer  Provi- 
dence. Dr.  Going,  and  brother  J.  L.  Dagg, 
heard  that  we  were  there,  and  came  on  board  to 
see  us.  Their  Christian  company  we  enjoyed 
only  a  few  moments,  as  we  left  the  city  at  5 
o'clock.  We  arrived  next  day  at  Providence  at 
10,  and  here  at  12  o'clock. 

We  have  been  kindly  received,  and  hospitably 
entertained  in  Boston.  The  name  of  the  vessel 
in  which  we  are  to  go  is  the  '  Louvre.'  From 
what  we  can  learn  we  shall  be  better  accommo- 
dated, as  to  vessel  and  company,  than  any  mis- 
sionaries who  have  left  the  United  States.  There 
are  twenty-two  of  us  in  company  —  nine  married 
couples,  and  four  single  persons.  We  expect  to 
sail  next  Monday  morning.  I  feel  contented  and 
happy . —  happy  because  1  expect  erelong,  should 
3* 


30  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

my  life  be  spared,  to  be  surrounded  by  heathen 
children,  and,  O!  what  a  delightful  task  to  teach 
them,  and  point  them  to  the  Lamb  of  God  !  Mr. 
Sutton  (a  missionary  from  the  East  on  a  visit  to 
this  country)  has  with  him  a  little  Hindoo  girl. 
She  is  very  interesting.  Sister  S.  is  an  amiable 
woman.  1  have  seen  all  the  females  who  will 
accompany  us.  Frances  (Mrs.  Davenport)  and 
myself  are  the  youngest  of  them.  There  is  one 
twenty  years  of  age ;  the  others  are  much  older. 
I  am  very  much  hurried,  so  you  must  excuse  all 
errors.  *  *  *  *  Arid  now,  dear  sister,  farewell. 
Pray  for  us  often  —  you  know  we  are  young,  and 
need  your  prayers  and  advice.  Write  to  us  also. 
I  am  yours  forever  in  the  bonds  of  love. 

H.  S." 

Mrs.  Shuck  was  accompanied  to  Boston  by 
her  devoted  father  and  step-mother.  She  had 
taken  a  final  leave  of  her  brothers  and  sisters. 
It  was  a  painful  separation,  but  the  most  trying 
conflict  was  yet  to  come.  To  give  the  parting 
hand,  and  parting  kiss,  to  a  fond  and  venerated 
father,  without  the  prospect  of  meeting  him  again 
on  earth,  was,  to  one  whose  affection  was  so  fer- 
vent as  was  hers,  almost  too  much  for  '  flesh 
and  blood'  to  bear.  The  following  letter,  enclos- 
ing a  lock  of  her  hair,  displays  the  strength  of 
her  affections  and  the  tempest  of  her  emotions. 

«  BOSTON,  SKPT.  18,  1835. 

I  have  parted  with  dear  little  brothers  —  I  have 
taken  the  last  look  at  my  dear  sisters  —  I  have  bid 
a  final  adieu  to  the  place  of  my  nativity ;  but, 
O !  the  trying  hour  has  not  yet  arrived.  One 


PARTING   LETTER.  31 

more  day,  and  I  shall  have  to  extend  the  '  part- 
ing hand '  to  him  who,  with  a  tender  parent's 
eye,  has  watched  over  rae  from  my  infancy. 
'  Trying  period,"  I  may  call  it.  Ah !  soul-thrill- 
ing word,  I  must  pronounce  thee  —  Farewell! 
I  have  to  say  farewell  to  those  I  fondly  love. 

O  my  father,  it  is  hard  —  'tis  trying  to  thy 
daughter's  heart  to  bid  thee  a  final  farewell.  My 
feelings  at  this  moment  are  very  different  from 
any  I  have  ever  (before)  experienced.  Often 
have  I  parted  with  you  —  I  have  been  separated 
from  you  for  some  months  (at  a  time)  —  but  now  I 
bid  you  adieu  no  more  to  see  you  —  no  more  to 
have  your  kind  attention  —  no  more  to  bend  the 
knee  with  you  around  the  family  altar.  But, 
dear  fathor,  when  I  say  '  no  more  '  to  meet,  I 
speak  of  this  world.  Yes,  we  shall  meet  again 
in  a  world  of  glory.  We  shall  not  be  separated 
long ;  the  longest  life  is  at  "best  but  short.  I  would 
not  be  deprived  of  the  hope  of  meeting  you  again 
for  the  weilth  of  Peru ;  no,  millions  of  worlds 
could  not  bribe  me  to  give  up  the  glorious  hope. 
It  will  continue  both  sure  and  steadfast  to  the 
end,  and  though  the  deep  may  roll  between  us, 
and  we  may  be  separated  by  thousands  of  miles, 
we  shall  soon  be  called  to  take  up  our  abode  in 
the  paradise  above,  '  where  adieus  and  farewells 
are  sounds  unknown.'  'Tis  there,  dearest  father, 
we  shall  meet  to  part  no  more.  Let  us  remem- 
ber, dear  p  irent,  for  whom  we  make  this  sacrifice 
—  who  bids  thy  daughter  go  —  and  I  am  certain 
we  cannot  murmur ;  we  can  but  part  joyfully. 
Yes,  'tis  my  Saviour  I  am  obeying. 

O !  do  not  for  a  moment  think  that  I  do  not 
possess  ardent  love  for  you.  Ah  !  no,  you  can 


32  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

not  think  so.  I  love  you  as  dearly  as  a  daughter 
can  love  a  father.  I  love  all  my  dear  friends, 
but  I  love  my  Saviour  better.  I  hope,  my  dear- 
est parent,  you  will  pray  often  for  your  fond  child, 
who  is  about  to  say  to  you,  '  Adieu.'  Recollect 
what  a  responsible  work  she  has  engaged  in,  and 
you  know  it  requires  ardent  piety.  Pray  that  I 
may  possess  more  real,  heart- felt  religion. 

Dear  father,  I  am  united  to  one  who,  I  believe, 
will  do  all  in  his  power  to  render  me  happy. 
He  loves  the  Lord,  and  I  love  him  more  for  that. 

And  now,  dear  parent,  as  I  am  very  much 
hurried,  I  must  draw  to  a  close,  'although  I  assure 
you  it  is  with  reluctance  that  I  do  so.  I  could 
write  all  day  to  you,  and  not  be  tired,  but  the 
shortness  of  the  time  bids  me  stop. 

Remember  me  to  all  the  dear  Christian  friends 
of  Lancaster.  Dear  native  spot,  it  never  before 
seemed  so  sweet.  Ask  my  friends  to  remember 
me  at  the  '  mercy  seat.' 

And  now,  dear  father,  mother,  sisters,  brothers, 
happy  country,  all  adieu.  'Tis  in  obedience  to 
the  command  of  my  dying,  but  now  risen  Jesus, 
that  I  now  leave  you.  Farewell !  Farewell ! ! 

I  am  now,  and  forever  shall  be,  dear  father, 
your  most  affectionate  and  devoted  daughter, 

HENRIETTA." 

At  the  moment  that  Mrs.  Shuck  handed  the 
above  letter,  with  a  handsome  New  Testament, 
to  her  father,  on  board  the  Louvre,  he,  without 
any  concert,  presented  her  with  a  beautiful  Bi- 
ble, and  put  into  her  hands  the  following  parting 
letter,  with  a  '  few  private  thoughts '  annexed. 
We  have  several  reasons  for  publishing  this  docu- 


LETTER    FROM    HER    FATHER.  33 

ment  entire.  It  is  intrinsically  excellent  —  it  fur- 
nishes the  reader  a  specimen  of  the  methods  by 
which  Mr.  Hall  aimed  to  train  his  daughter  for 
usefulness  —  and  it  exerted,  as  we  learn  from  an 
unquestionable  source,  a  most  potent  and  happy 
influence  in  moulding  her  character.  She  fre- 
quently alluded  to  it  in  a  manner  that  indicated 
that  the  advice,  in  itself  so  judicious,  given  by 
one  so  venerated,  and  under  circumstances  so 
fitted  to  impress  the  heart,  was  not  lost. 

"  BOSTOW,  SEPT.  20,  1835. 

My  Dear  Henrietta, 

The  time  is  at  hand  when  you  are  to  bid  adieu 
to  the  land  of  your  birth,  to  enter  upon  a  mission 
of  mercy  to  a  distant  and  heathenish  portion  of 
our  nice.  If  commissioned  upon  this  embassage 
of  peace  and  salvation  to  perishing  sinners  by 
the  King  of  kings,  I  doubt  not  he  will  furnish 
you  with  such  instructions,  and  afford  you  such 
encouragement  and  support,  as  will  enable  you 
to  accomplish  the  object  of  your  mission. 

God  will  not,  however,  speak  audibly  in  your 
ears,  and  you  will  have  to  receive  his  communi- 
cations through  the  medium  of  his  word,  his  ser- 
vants, and  by  his  Spirit  operating  upon  your  heart, 
and  moving  you  in  the  path  of  duty. 

Placed  in  the  endearing  relation  to  you  of  a 
father,  it  imy  not  be  contrary  to  the  will  of  our 
heavenly  Father,  that  I  should  assume  the  duty 
of  imparting  some  instruction  to  you,  touching 
the  important  business  upon  which  you  are  about 
to  enter. 

I  have  no  reason  to  doubt  the  correctness  of 
the  motives  which  influence  you ;  the  sacrifice  of 


34  MEMOIR  OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

all  further  personal  intercourse  on  earth  with  so 
many  dear  friends,  to  encounter  the  dangers  of 
the  ocean,  and  to  live  and  die  amongst  unculti- 
vated heathen,  would  seem  to  be  proof  enough 
of  disinterestedness,  did  we  not  know  the  pride 
and  deceitfulness  of  the  human  heart.  The 
desire  of  distinction,  love  of  novelty,  &-c.,  are  such 
insidious  motives  that  sometimes  they  assume  the 
name  of  philanthropy,  and  it  requires  great  cau- 
tion and  much  self-examination  to  detect  them. 

On  this  point  I  need  not  enlarge.  You  know 
that  for  more  than  twelve  months  you  have  had 
my  thoughts  upon  it.  You  have,  as  I  trust, 
prayerfully  and  deliberately  considered  the  sub- 
ject, in  all  its  bearings,  and  you  have  decided  to 
go.  In  making  this  decision  you  have  subjected 
yourself  to  many  unkind  remarks  from  the  illibe- 
ral, the  ignorant,  and  the  wicked,  some  of  which 
may  have  reached  your  ears,  but  by  far  the 
greater  part  have  been  uttered  out  of  your  hearing. 

To  say  that  /  have  no  fears  whatever  for  you, 
would  be  untrue.  'Tis  what,  I  presume,  you 
would  not  venture  to  say  for  yourself.  We  should 
distrust,  and  jealously  watch  every  motive  which 
has  so  much  to  do  with  self.  While  I  would  not 
myself,  nor  would  I  have  you,  indulge  a  confi- 
dent boasting  in  regard  to  this  matter,  at  the  same 
time,  I  am  free  to  express  the  opinion,  that  so 
far  as  we  can  judge,  it  is  the  will  of  God  that 
you  should  take  this  step.  If  we  be  mistaken,  I 
trust  that  he  will  pardon  our  blindness,  and  over- 
rule all  for  good. 

You  have,  my  dear  child,  taken  upon  you  the 
name  and  office  of  a  missionary  —  a  name  and 
office  which  a  Judson,  and  Newell,  and  Morrison, 


LETTER  FROM  HER  FATHER.         35 

and  Gut/luff,  and  others,  have  caused  to  be  asso- 
ciated with  honor ;  but  you  must  remember  that 
they  are  not  necessarily  thus  associated.  The 
reputation  which  those  missionaries  who  have 
preceded  you  have  attained  cannot  be  transferred 
to  you.  By  patient,  continued  and  faithful  labor 
in  the  cause  of  Christ,  must  you  win  and  share 
the  honors  of  a  missionary  life.  Whilst  the 
result  of  your  toils,  in  this  cause  may  confer  some 
degree  of  honor  upon  yourself,  let  it  not  be  for- 
gotten that  this  is  the  least  consideration  which 
should  animate  you.  The  glory  of  God,  and  the 
good  of  souls,  should  move  you  to  the  same 
exertions,  were  you  confident  that  in  this  world 
your  motives  would  be  impugned,  and  your  name 
brought  into  disrepute.  For  the  sake  of  the 
cause,  however,  in  which  you  are  engaged,  it 
should  be  your  care  to  gain  a  standing  with  the 
world  (at  least  the  Christian  world)  for  a  high 
degree  of  moral  and  religious  worth. 

Aim  at  high  attainments  in  personal  piety  — 
not  such  as  will  cause  you  to  feel  like  the  Phari- 
see, when  he  said,  '  God,  I  thank  thee,'  &c. ;  but 
rather  such  as  will  humble  you,  and  bring  you  to 
the  foot  of  the  cross,  and  cause  you  to  adopt  the 
prayer  of  the  publican, '  God,  be  merciful  to  me 
a  sinner ! ' 

MONDAY,  SEPT.  21,  1835. 

Since  writing  the  above,  we  have  attended  the 
meeting  for  the  public  designation  of  your  coin- 
puny  as  missionaries,  and  we  have  heard  the 
official  instructions  of  the  Board.  Those  instruc- 
tions are  the  result  of  age  and  experience,  and 
contain  all,  perhaps,  that  is  necessary  for  your 
guidance ;  and  I  shall,  without  repeating  such 


36  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

thoughts  as  are  there  suggested,  only  insist  with 
PARENTAL  EARNESTNESS  that  you  pay  strict  regard 
to  them. 

There  is  one  thought  that  I  would  here  impress 
deeply  upon  your  mind,  and  that  is,  that  you 
have  enlisted  for  life;  and  that  unless  extraor- 
dinary occurrences  of  Providence  shall  otherwise 
indicate,  you  are  NEVER  TO  RETURN  TO  AMERICA 
—  NEVER,  unless  the  Board  here  shall  advise  and 
require  it. 

I  part  with  you  with  all  the  feelings  of  nature, 
and  shall,  when  let  down  to  the  feeling  point, 
(for  I  am  now  above  it,)  weep  on  account  of  our 
separation ;  but  I  assure  you  that  I  do  not  regret 
that  you  are  going.  Assure  me  that  all  is  right 
in  motive  with  us  all,  and  that  God  requires  it, 
and  I  rejoice  in  the  prospect  of  your  living  and 
dying  on  heathen  ground.  I  should  look  upon 
it  as  a  lasting  stigma  were  you  to  become  tired  of 
your  vocation,  and  quit  the  service  in  which  you 
have  engaged. 

Although  you  have  reflected  on  many  trials 
and  difficulties  that  may  attend  you,  after  all, 
you  perhaps  have  not  thought  of  half  that  you 
will  experience.  Prepare  your  mind  for  the 
worst.  You  should  not,  however,  doubt  the  faith- 
fulness of  God,  that  he  will  be  with  you  always. 

In  your  intercourse  with  your  co-laborers  in 
the  same  service,  I  hope  you  will  find  much  pleas- 
ure. Catch  all  their  virtues,  and  avoid  all  their 
foibles,  (if  they  have  any.)  You  will  have  much 
time  during  the  voyage  and  afterwards,  it  is  proba- 
ble, for  devotion,  reading  and  reflection.  Endeavor 
to  improve  it.  Lay  in  a  good  stock  of  useful 
knowledge,  and  do  not  consider  your  education 


LETTER  FROM  HER  FATHER.         37 

as  yet  complete.     Take  care  of  minutes,  and  have 
system  in  all  your  affairs. 

Remember  those  you  leave  behind  ;  —  your 
brothers,  sisters,  friends.  Pray  for  them,  and 
write  to  them.  I  find  I  have  not  opportunity  to 
write  more.  We  part  in  a  short  time,  to  meet 
no  more  on  earth!  But  we  shall  meet  again  — 
SHORTLY  —  in  HEAVEN  ! 

Till  then,  FAREWELL! 

Your  Father, 

ADDISON  HALL." 

«wj  few  Private  Thoughts  for  Henrietta. 

You  will  find,  in  many  books,  rules,  and  good 
rules,  for  the  government  of  your  conduct  in 
respect  to  your  husband ;  but  you  may  not  meet 
with  them,  or  if  you  do  you  may  not  subscribe 
to  them  so  entirely  as  to  practise  them.  You 
will  find  the  sum  and  substance  of  your  duty  in 
this  respect  in  a  volume  which  you  will  always, 
I  trust,  have  near  you — the  Bible.  If  you  observe 
strictly  the  directions  therein  contained,  you  will 
find  your  account  in  it.  Your  happiness  and 
usefulness,  depend  on  it,  is  intimately  connected 
with  the  manner  in  which  you  observe  these  rules. 
One  principle  must,  of  necessity,  be  acted  on, 
and  that  is,  that  you  must  yield  to  the  will  of  your 
husband,  whenever  the  point  is  made ;  this  must 
be  the  case,  or  he  must  submit  to  you.  I  do  not 
mean  that  it  is  necessary  to  yield  a  forced  obedi- 
ence, but  a  willing  one.  God  has  constituted 
the  man,  as  the  stronger  in  mind  and  body,  to 
have  the  government ;  and  in  proportion  as  you 
may  be  disposed  to  usurp  the  authority  which 
belongs  to  him,  you  destroy  the  order  of  Provi- 
4 


58  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK 

dence,  and  the  harmony  of  the  connubial  state. 
Never  oppose,  therefore,  the  will  of  your  husband. 
You  may  reason  with  and  persuade  him,  but  do 
not  attempt  to  dictate  to  him.  '  I  WILL,'  and  '  I 
WON'T,'  are  words  which  should  not  be  found 
in  a  wife's  vocabulary.  Never  use  them  to  your 
husband,  or  you  may  force  him  to  adopt  such  as 
he  may  lawfully  do,  but  such  as  he  should  never 
have  occasion  for  — '  YOU  SHALL,'  and  '  YOU  SHALL 
NOT.' 

Don't  fret  at  or  quarrel  with  your  husband  on 
any  occasion.  He  is  fallible,  and  may  some- 
times err,  and  may  speak  unadvisedly  ;  but  on 
euch  occasions  be  silent  and  affectionate,  and  you 
will  reform  him. 

Be  always  neat  and  cleanly  in  your  person 
and  dress,  and  you  will  increase  his  love  and 
respect  for  you.  A  sluttish  appearance  in  a  wife 
distresses,  and  may  even  disgust,  a  husband. 

Little  differences  may,  and  sometimes  will, 
occur  between  a  man  and  his  wife.  Should  you 
find  this  your  case,  take  the  earliest  opportunity 
of  making  the  first  overture  of  reconciliation. 
You  will  thereby  heal  the  wound,  and  increase 
the  love  of  your  husband. 

When  you  reach  your  place  of  destination, 
and  your  husband  is  necessarily  compelled  to  be 
often  absent  from  you,  do  not  take  it  as  evidence 
of  his  want  of  affection.  If  he  stay  beyond  the 
time  expected,  meet  him  on  his  return  with 
smiles  and  caresses;  and,  depend  on  it,  he  will 
be  thereby  induced  to  hasten  home  when  other- 
wise he  might  not.  Make  HOME  the  quietest 
and  happiest  place,  and  he  will  love  it. 

Your  husband  may  die  —  before  you.     In  that 


LETTER  FROM  HER  FATHER.         39 

event,  remember,  that  if  I  am  living,  you  should 
take  no  important  step  without  my  advice,  how- 
ever  distant,  if  it  can  be  avoided.  If  it  be  im- 
possible to  get  that  advice,  go  to  the  pious  and 
experienced  with  whom  you  may  be  associated. 

Improve  your  handwriting  —  it  needs  it 

Do  not  be  impatient  when  you  are  sick  —  you 
are  rather  predisposed  that  way. 

Take  great  care  of  your  health :  avoid  the  sun 
when  it  is  hot,  and  the  dews,  and  ail  improper 
food,  and  don't  take  medicine  too  freely,  and 
without  great  caution. 

Avoid  careless  habits  in  every  respect.  'A 
place  for  every  thing,  and  every  thing  in  its 
place.' 

A.  HALL. 

BOSTON,  SXPT.  21,  1835." 


(40) 


CHAPTER  II. 


The  Embarkation  —  Parting  Scene  described  by  Dr.  Malcom  —  Ex- 
tracts from  Mrs.  Shuck'*  Journal  and  Letters  during  tier  Voyage  — 
Ship  touches  tit  Kedgeree  —  at  Amherst — Visit  to  Maulmain  — 
Interview  with  the  Missionaries  —  Ship  touches  at  Penang — 
Beautiful  Scenery  —  Voyage  to  Singapore  —  Fear  of  Pirates  —  Con- 
version of  Sailors. 

THE  morning  of  the  22d  of  Sept.  has  come  — 
has  passed  —  the  parting  hand  has  been  pressed, 
and  the  parting  tear  shed  —  the  Louvre,  freighted 
with  the  treasures  of  salvation  for  the  perishing 
heathen,  is  careering  over  the  billows  of  the  vast 
Atlantic  —  and  the  passengers  have  seen,  receding 
and  vanishing  in  the  distance,  the  shores  of  their 
favored  and  fondly-remembered  country.  The 
parting  scene  is  thus  described  by  Dr.  Malcom, 
who  went  out  in  the  Louvre  as  an  agent  of  the 
Board  of  the  Baptist  Triennial  Convention  to 
visit  their  mission  stations  in  the  East. 

"  How  cordial  and  comprehensive  are  the  sym- 
pathies of  true  religion  !  Who  that  saw  the  Lou- 
vre, with  her  eleven  ordained  ministers,  about  to 
spread  her  canvass,  could  fail  to  contrast  the 
scene  with  ordinary  shipping  operations !  Over 
all  the  wharf  is  one  dense  mass  of  grave  and 
silent  spectators,  while  the  decks  and  rigging  of 
the  adjacent  ships  are  filled  with  younger,  but 
not  less  intent  observers.  No  sound  interrupts 


PASTING   SCENE.  41 

the  ascending  prayer.  The  full  harmony  of  a 
thousand  voices  wafts  to  Heaven  the  touching 
hymn.  Countless  hands,  thrust  toward  the  narrow 
passway,  seek  the  last  token  of  recognition.  Even 
the  aged,  unaccustomed  to  tears,  weep,  not  in  bit- 
terness, but  in  exuberance  of  love. 

But  here  are  none  of  the  customary  induce- 
ments to  convene  a  crowd.  A  ship  sailing  with 
passengers  is  no  novelty.  One  of  the  number 
was,  indeed,  the  pastor  of  a  large  and  most  affec- 
tionate congregation  ;  but  with  the  others,  in  gen- 
eral, the  multitude  had  no  acquaintance.  Personal 
attachments,  therefore,  had  not  assembled  the 
people.  There  was,  in  fact,  nothing  in  the  scene 
which  could  call  forth  a  general  interest,  but  its 
religious  character.  The  regular  packet,  crowded 
with  passengers,  leaves  our  shores,  while  only 
here  and  there  a  group  of  personal  friends  look 
on  with  interest.  The  merchantman  unfurls  his 
sails,  but  his  destination  and  objects  are  not 
regarded.  But  the  missionary  !  he  awakens  the 
sympathy  of  every  believer.  Stranger  though  he 
may  be,  all  press  to  grasp  his  hand ;  and,  when 
gone,  all  intercede  for  him  with  God.  Even  de- 
nominational prejudices  are  forgotten,  and  every 
sect  mingles  in  the  throng,  exulting  in  a  common 

joy- 
Never  did  a  ship  leave  Boston  harbor  more 
nobly.  A  fine  wind,  and  favoring  tide,  bore  us  so 
rapidly  as  scarcely  to  leave  us  time  to  gaze  one 
lingering  farewell  to  the  faint  outlines  of  the  great 
and  beautiful  city.  In  two  hours  the  pilot  left  us, 
bearing  brief  notes  of  affectionate  remembrance 
to  friends  behind." 

The  voyage,  so  auspiciously  commenced,  proves 
4* 


42  MEMOIR   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

to  be  long  and  tedious.  Mrs.  Shuck  kept  a  jour- 
nal during  the  voyage  for  the  special  perusal  of 
her  father,  and  wrote  several  letters  to  her  rela- 
tives and  friends.  Some  extracts  from  these,  in 
chronological  order,  will  furnish  the  reader,  not 
only  a  sufficient  account  of  the  voyage,  but  a  just 
idea  of  the  writer's  spirit. 

Journal.  —  "  Sept.  30.  Owing  to  constant  sea- 
sickness, I  have  been  entirely  unable  to  write  any 
since  I  left  the  shores  of  my  own  loved,  native 
land ;  —  however,  I  feel  much  better  to-day.  This 
is  the  regular  afternoon  for  the  female  missionary 
prayer  meeting  in  Richmond.  I  hope  those  dear 
young  friends  will  be  more  frequent,  fervent,  and 
persevering,  in  their  petitions  to  their  heavenly 
Father,  now,  since  two  of  their  number  have  left 
them  for  a  heathen  land.  It  is  truly  comforting 
to  me  to  know,  that  so  many  of  my  dear  Christian 
friends  have  promised  to  remember  me  at  a  mercy 
seat ;  and  when  I  shall  be  tempted  on  all  sides, 
and  be  in  the  midst  of  a  people  who  know  not 
the  Lord  Jesus,  then  it  will  be  truly  sweet  to  think 
that  I  am  borne  upon  the  wings  of  faith  before 
Jehovah's  throne,  by  many,  many  in  America ! 

Oct.  1.  Truly  the  Lord  has  favored  us. 
We  have  been  sailing  but  ten  days,  and  are  now 
1500  miles  from  Boston.  This  is  the  first  time 
I  have  been  able  to  attend  family  worship  since 
sailing.  I  felt  truly  happy  to  bow  the  knee  once 
again  with  others. 

3.  My  thoughts  to-day,  dear  pa',  have  been 
much  with  you  all.  I  feel  an  increasing  concern 
for  the  welfare  of  my  dear  sisters  and  brothers. 
May  they  all,  as  soon  as  they  arrive  at  the  age  of 


LETTER  TO   HEE   FATHER.  43 

maturity,  give  their  hearts  to  the  Saviour !  I  can- 
not bear  to  think  of  parting  with  them  in  another 
world.  But  especially  have  I  thought  of  sister 
Susan  —  she  is  now  old  enough  to  know  something 
of  that  religion  which  the  Bible  teaches.  If  she 
were  called  to  exchange  worlds,  I  fear  she  would 
be  eternally  lost.  The  earliest  impressions  are  by 
far  the  most  lasting.  Do,  dearest  father,  endeavor 
to  impress  on  the  tender  minds  of  the  children 
the  solemn  truth,  that  unless  they  repent  they 
must  be  forever  lost.  What  you  teach  them 
now  will  have  great  bearing  on  them  throughout 
their  lives.  That  we  may,  after  lives  filled  up 
with  usefulness,  meet  in  the  regions  of  perfect 
love  and  happiness,  is  now,  and  shall  always  be, 
my  constant  prayer." 

A  Letter. 

"Ocr.  6,  LAT.  34,  Lou.  40,  W. 

My  much-loved  Father, 

No  doubt  you  are  already  anxious  to 
hear  from  your  dear  absent  child,  although  it  has 
been  so  short  a  time  since  we  enjoyed  each  other's 
company. 

Your  very  kind  and  affectionate  letters  were 
read  by  me  with  no  ordinary  feelings.  If  ever  I 
felt  disposed  to  hearken  to  advice,  it  was  whilst 
reading  the  last  lines  I  received  from  you ;  and  if 
ever  advice  appeared  to  be  of  the  right  kind,  it 
was  contained  in  your  three  letters.  O  that  the 
Lord  may  assist  me  in  endeavoring  to  profit  by  it ! 

Dear  father,  I  experience  now  the  reality  of 
eome  of  those  feelings  which  have  for  some  time 
burned  within  my  bosom.  Yes,  I  have  parted 


44  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

with  friends;  I  have  left  the  shores  of  my  own 
dear  native  land  ;  I  am  now  travelling  the  mighty 
deep,  and  soon  J  hope  to  enter  a  field  of  labor 
amongst  the  perishing  heathen.  I  have  taken  on 
me  the  responsible  name  of  a  missionary  —  a 
name  too  honorable  for  me  to  bear,  an  unworthy 
worm  of  the  dust.  I  have,  indeed,  often  wished 
that  I  might  be  useful  in  the  cause  of  my 
heavenly  Master,  in  some  humble  way. 

We,  poor  ignorant  beings,  cannot  divest  our- 
selves of  human  nature.  We  are  apt  to  be  self- 
ish ;  are  liable  to  fall  into  errors ;  are,  by  far,  too 
apt  to  mistake  our  own  feelings  as  the  impulses 
of  duty.  Our  hearts  are  deceitful  above  all  things 
and  desperately  wicked  —  especially  mine  is  ;  yet, 
vile  and  polluted  as  I  am,  I  think  I  have  endeav- 
ored to  examine  well  into  my  motives,  and  have 
come  to  this  conclusion,  that  nothing,  save  the 
glory  of  God  and  the  good  of  souls,  could  have 
prompted  me  to  take  the  step  which  I  have  taken. 

You  seem  to  wish  the  idea,  '  that  I  have  en- 
listed for  life,'  deeply  impressed  on  my  mind. 
The  thought  that  I  am  to  get  tired  of  my  duty, 
and  forsake  a  field  of  usefulness,  is  one  on  which 
I  delight  not  to  dwell ;  although,  when  my  eyes 
glanced  over  the  words  of  your  letter,  '  You  are 
never  to  return  to  America,'  my  feelings  seemed 
to  be  entirely  new.  Yet,  if  I  know  my  own  de- 
praved heart,  I  feel  willing,  yea,  anxious,  if  it  be 
the  will  of  Heaven,  to  live  and  die  without  ever 
again  beholding  the  land  of  my  nativity  and  the 
friends  of  my  childhood.  It  is  sufficient  to  know 
that  I  do  it  for  Christ.  To  him  can  I  go  in  every 
time  of  trouble,  and  from  him  do  I  expect  to 
receive  every  good  and  perfect  gift." 


LETTER    TO    HER    SISTER.  45 

Letter  to  Aer  Sister  Susan. 

"ATLANTIC,  OCT.  24. 

Very  dear  Sister, 

I  cannot  refuse  myself  the  gratification 
of  writing  to  you  this  afternoon,  although  I  feel 
very  dull  about  the  head.  I  have  been  thinking 
a  great  deal  of  your  dear,  never-dying  soul  lately. 
You  cannot  imagine  the  horror  which  fills  my 
mind  as  I  meditate  on  the  solemn  truth  that  you 
are  unprepared  for  death.  Dear  sister,  it  is  time 
for  you  to  awake.  Eternity  is  at  hand ;  the  day 
of  your  death  is  approaching,  and  still  you  seem 
to  take  but  little  thought  of  your  precious  soul. 
I  have  parted  from  you,  never  expecting  to  see 
you  again  on  this  side  eternity.  I  feel  no  sorrow 
at  having  done  so.  I  am  willing  to  see  you  no 
more  in  the  flesh.  But,  O  my  sister,  the 
thought  that  we  may  be  separated  in  another 
world  is  too  painful  to  dwell  on ;  and  yet  it  must 
be  so,  unless  you  resign  your  heart  into  the  hands 
of  an  all-wise  Protector.  Put  this  not  off,  I 
beseech  you,  dear  sister,  for  some  future  day. 
The  day  you  appoint  may  never  come.  I  was 
reading  a  narrative,  the  other  day,  which  I  will 
here  insert  for  your  perusal.  Do  not  read  it  with 
a  careless  eye,  —  you  may  be  reading  a  case  simi- 
lar to  your  own. 

'  Shortly  after  my  settlement  in  the  ministry,' 
says  Mr.  Abbot,  '  I  observed  in  the  congregation 
a  young  lady,  whose  blooming  countenance  and 
cheerful  air  showed  perfect  health  and  high 
elation  of  spirits.  Her  appearance  at  once  sat- 
isfied me  that  she  was  amiable,  but  thoughtless. 
There  was  no  one  of  my  charge  whose  prospects 
for  long  life  were  more  promising  than  hers,  and, 


46  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

perhaps,  no  one  who  looked  to  the  future  with 
more  pleasing  hopes  of  enjoyment.  To  her  the 
world  seemed  bright.  She  often  said  she  wished 
to  enjoy  more  of  it  before  she  became  a  Christian. 
Louisa  (for  by  that  name  I  shall  call  her)  mani- 
fested no  particular  hostility  to  religion,  but  wish- 
ed to  live  a  gay  and  merry  life,  till  just  before  her 
death,  and  then  to  become  pious  and  happy.  She 
was  constant  in  her  attendance  at  church,  and 
while  others  seemed  moved  by  the  exhibitions  of 
a  Saviour's  love,  she  seemed  entirely  unaffected. 
Upon  whatever  subject  I  preached,  her  counte- 
nance retained  the  same  marks  of  indifference 
and  unconcern.  The  same  easy  smile  played 
upon  her  features  whether  sin  or  death,  heaven  or 
hell,  was  the  theme  of  discourse.  One  evening, 
I  invited  a  few  of  the  ladies  of  my  society  to 
meet  at  my  house.  She  came  with  her  compan- 
ions. I  had  sought  the  interview  with  them,  that 
I  might  more  directly  urge  upon  them  the  impor- 
tance of  religion.  All  in  the  room  were  affected, 
and  she,  though  evidently  moved,  endeavored  to 
conceal  her  feelings.  The  interest  in  this  great 
subject  manifested  by  those  present  was  such, 
that  I  informed  them  that  I  would  meet,  in  a  week 
from  that  time,  any  who  wished  for  personal  con- 
versation. The  appointed  evening  arrived,  and  I 
was  pleased  to  see,  with  two  or  three  others, 
Louisa  enter  my  house.  I  conversed  with  each 
one  individually.  They  generally,  with  much 
frankness,  expressed  their  state  of  feeling.  Most 
of  them  expressed  much  solicitude  respecting 
their  eternal  interests.  Louisa  appeared  different 
from  the  rest.  She  was  anxious,  and  unable  to 
conceal  her  anxiety,  and  yet  ashamed  to  have  it 


LETTER   TO    HER    SISTER.  47 

known  she  had  come  to  converse  with  me  on  the 
subject  of  religion,  and  yet  was  making  an 
evident  effort  to  appear  indifferent.  I  had  long 
felt  interested  in  Louisa,  and  was  glad  of  this 
opportunity  to  converse  with  her.  "  Louisa,"  said 
I,  "  I  am  happy  to  see  you  here  this  evening,  and 
particularly  so  as  you  have  come  interested  in  the 
subject  of  religion."  She  made  no  reply.  "Have 
you  been  long  thinking  about  this  subject,  Louisa?" 
"  I  always  thought  the  subject  important,  sir,  but 
have  not  attended  to  it  as  I  suppose  I  ought."  I 
conversed  longer  with  her,  but  she  continued  to 
think  she  did  (not)  feel  sufficiently  her  need  of  a 
Saviour.  After  addressing  a  few  general  remarks 
to  my  young  friends,  we  kneeled  in  prayer,  and 
the  interview  closed.  Another  meeting  was  ap- 
pointed. Louisa  again  made  her  appearance  with 
the  same  young  ladies,  and  a  few  others.  She 
appeared  much  more  deeply  impressed.  I  com- 
menced a  conversation  with  her  first.  She,  in 
reply  to  a  question  of  mine,  said,  "  I  think,  sir,  it 
is  time  for  me  to  attend  to  my  immortal  soul.  I 
have  neglected  it  too  long."  She  seemed  to  be  a 
true  penitent,  but  knew  not  how  to  get  rid  of  sin. 
After  conversing  with  the  others,  our  meeting 
closed,  and  a  similar  appointment  was  made  for 
the  next  week.  Some  young  ladies  appeared, 
but  Louisa  was  absent — a  slight  cold  detained  her. 
The  next  week,  however,  Louisa  was  present, 
but  seemed  more  careless  than  before.  This, 
however,  was  the  last  time  she  met  with  us ;  but, 
alas !  I  was  soon  called  to  see  her  under  circum- 
stances different  from  what  had  been  anticipated 
Months  passed,  and  not  seeing  L.  at  our  meet- 
ings, (which  continued  until  many  became  con 


48  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

verted,)  I  almost  forgot  her,  when  one  day,  as  I 
was  riding  out,  I  was  informed  that  she  was  ill, 
and  wished  to  see  me.  I  was  soon  in  her  sick 
chamber.  She  had  taken  a  violent  cold,  and  it 
had  settled  into  a  fever.  She  was  lying  in  her 
bed,  her  cheek  glowing  with  a  feverish  hue,  and 
her  lips  parched  with  thirst.  She  seemed  agi- 
tated when  I  entered  the  room,  and  the  moment  I 
stood  by  her  bed-side,  and  inquired  how  she  did, 
she  covered  her  face  with  her  hands,  and  burst 
into  a  flood  of  tears.  Her  sister,  who  was  by  her 
side,  turned  to  me,  and  said,  "  Sir,  she  is  in  great 
distress  of  mind :  mental  agony  has  kept  her 
awake  nearly  all  night.  She  has  wished  often  to 
see  you,  that  she  might  converse  with  you  on  the 
subject  of  religion."  I  was  fearful  the  agitation 
she  manifested  might  seriously  injure  her  health, 
and  did  all  I  could  consistently  to  soothe  her. 
"  But,  sir,"  said  Louisa,  "  I  am  sick,  and  may  die  ; 
I  know  that  I  am  not  a  Christian,  and  O !  if  I 
die  in  this  state  of  mind,  what  will  become  of 
me?  what  will  become  of  me?"  and  again  burst 
into  tears.  What  could  I  say  ?  Every  word  she 
uttered  was  true.  Her  eyes  were  opened  to  her 
danger.  There  was  indeed  cause  for  alarm. 
Sickness  was  upon  her.  Delirium  might  soon 
ensue ;  death  might  be  very  neai  ;  and  her  soul 
was  unprepared  to  appear  before  God.  She  saw 
it  all ;  she  felt  it  all.  Fever  was  burning  in  her 
veins,  but  she  forgot  hor  pains  in  view  of  ap- 
proaching judgment.  I  told  her  that  the  Lord 
was  good,  and  that  he  was  ready  to  hear  her 
prayer.  "  But,  sir,"  said  she,  "  I  have  known  my 
duty  too  long,  and  have  neglected  it.  I  have 
been  ashamed  of  Christ,  and  have  grieved  away 


LETTER   TO    HER    SISTER.  49 

the  Spirit ;  and  now  I  am  likely  to  die,  and  am 
unprepared.  O!  if  I  were  a  Christian,  I  would 
be  willing  to  die."  I  told  her  of  a  Saviour's  love, 
and  endeavored  to  induce  her  to  resign  herself 
calmly  into  his  hands ;  but  all  proved  unavailing. 
I  called  again  the  next  day  to  see  her.  She  still 
was  greatly  distressed :  no  comfort  could  she 
find.  Tossed  from  side  to  side  by  fever,  on  a 
sick  bed,  she  lay  almost  ready  to  sink  into  the 
grave. 

I  left  her  almost  ready  to  go  deranged,  but  was 
greatly  in  hopes  of  hearing,  when  I  called  again, 
that  she  was  better ;  but,  alas !  how  disappointed 
I  was,  when  I  again  went  to  see  her  !  "  How  is 
Louisa,  this  morning  ? "  was  my  first  inquiry. 
"  She  is  dead,  sir,"  was  the  reply.  "  At  what 
time  did  she  die?"  "  About  midnight." 

Thus,  dear  sister,  died  a  young,  lovely  female, 
without  hope  in  God.  You  see  what  procrastina- 
tion brought  her  to.  O !  will  you  not  take  heed, 
and  '  seek  the  Lord  while  he  may  be  found  '  ? 
My  dear  sister,  did  you  know  what  joys  flow 
from  religion,  I  am  sure  you  would  no  longer 
serve  Satan,  but  you  would  serve  God.  Will 
you  not,  after  reading  the  incident  I  have  related, 
be  wise,  defer  it  no  longer,  but  determine  to  come 
out  from  the  world,  and  declare  yourself  to  be 
on  the  Lord's  side?  How  many  young  girls, 
younger  than  yourself,  have  openly  professed  to 
be  the  followers  of  the  meek  and  lowly  Jesus ! 
Take  poor  little  M.,  for  example.  See  how  amia- 
ble she  was,  and  how  suddenly  she  was  called  to 
pass  from  time  to  eternity.  Suppose  she  had  de- 
layed seeking  the  Lord,  what  a  sad  condition 
would  hers  have  been !  But,  ah !  no,  she 
5 


50  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

sought  him  and  he  was  found  by  her,  and  now 
she  is  rejoicing,  with  holy  angels,  clothed  in  a 
robe  made  white  in  the  blood  of  Jesus.  She  has 
bid  adieu  to  all  the  cares  and  sorrows  of  this 
'  vain,  delusive  world.'  Dear  sister,  ask  yourself 
this  question  — '  If  I  were  dead,  could  the  same 
things  be  said  of  me?'  I  am  certain  your  answer 
would  be,  '  No! '  Well,  this  is  a  solemn  thought. 
You  know  not  but  that  you  may  be  taken  away 
in  the  morning  of  life,  just  as  dear  little  M.  was. 

I  have  addressed  this  to  you,  as  you  are  the 
older,  but  I  mean  it  for  Isabella  too.  I  hope  both 
of  you  will  read  it — think  of  Louisa,  and  flee  to 
the  arms  of  a  crucified  Saviour,  that  your  condi- 
tion may  not  be  similar  to  hers. 

I  cannot  bear  the  thought,  dear  children,  of 
never  meeting  you  in  this  world,  nor  in  the  world 
to  come.  I  often  retire  from  the  view  of  all, 
where  no  eye  can  see,  and  no  ear  can  hear,  but 
God's,  and  pray  that  you  may  soon  feel  the  par- 
doning love  of  the  Saviour.  I  have  prayed  more 
fervently  for  this  since  I  left  you,  than  ever  I  did 
before. 

Kiss  dear  Addison,  William,  Robert,  and 
Lucius — dear,  dear  children,  I  can  scarcely  think 
of  them  but  I  weep.  Tell  them  why  I  have  left 
them :  tell  them  to  be  good  children,  and  meet  me 
in  heaven.  And  now,  my  dear  sister,  I  must 
draw  to  a  close.  O  that  we  may  all  meet  in 
heaven,  where  we  shall  part  no  more  —  sin  no 
more — suffer  no  more. 

Journal  —  "Oct.  28.  This  is  my  birthday. 
Eighteen  years  of  my  life  have  passed  forever. 
I  am  truly  grieved  to  know  that  so  little  of  my 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.       51 

time  has  been  devoted  to  my  heavenly  Father. 
He  has  been  heaping  on  me  innumerable  mer- 
cies from  the  dawn  of  my  existence  to  the  present 
moment ;  and,  O !  what  base  ingratitude  I  have 
returned  him  !  But  thanks  be  to  God,  he  is  not  like 
unto  man.  He  is  kind  and  forgiving,  and  I  will, 
for  the  future,  endeavor  to  devote  myself  more 
unreservedly  to  his  blessed  cause.  But,  alas ! 
how  often  do  I  make  such  resolutions !  and  as  fre- 
quently too  do  I  break  them.  The  spirit  is  will- 
ing, but  the  flesh  is  truly  weak.  Aid,  O  Lord  ! 
thy  servant  to  do  as  thou  wouldst  have  her. 

Nov.  9.  For  the  last  seven  days  I  have  been 
laid  low  on  a  bed  of  severe  sickness ;  but  now  I 
am  better,  and  I  thank  the  Lord  for  it. 

9  o'clock,  at  night.  —  The  last  hour  has  been 
one  of  peculiar  enjoyment  to  me.  Whilst  alone, 
meditating  on  the  goodness  of  God,  especially  to 
me,  my  soul  seemed  to  long  for  the  period  to  ar- 
rive when  this  mortal  shall  put  on  immortality, 
and,  being  washed  in  the  blood  of  Jesus,  I  shall 
live  with  and  praise  him  throughout  eternity.  I 
also  enjoyed  secret  prayer.  I  felt  an  assurance, 
in  praying  for  my  loved,  unconverted  friends,  that 
my  feeble  petitions  would  be  heard  and  answered. 
I  long  for  the  name  of  Jesus  to  be  adored  by 
every  tongue  and  people. 

'  From  sea  to  sea,  from  shore  to  shore, 

May  Jesus  be  adored, 
And  earth,  with  all  her  millions,  shout 
Hosannas  to  the  Lord  ! ' 

We  are  now  not  more  than  100  miles  from 
Pernambuco,  on  the  South  American  coast ;  and 
are  sailing  at  the  rate  of  seven  miles  an  hour, 
being  now  about  6000  miles  on  our  way." 


52  MEMOIE   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

Jl  Letter  to  the  Compiler. 

"  Nor.  13. 

Perhaps  it  might  interest  you  to  hear  how 
our  time  is  spent  on  board  ship,  and  I  will  give 
you  a  brief  history  of  the  manner  in  which  it  has 
been  thus  far  employed.  You  are  aware  that 
brethren  Malcom  and  Sutton  are  with  us,  which 
of  course  renders  our  voyage  much  more  agree- 
able.  As  yet  we  have  been  able  to  hnve  family 
worship  only  at  night.  At  10  o'clock  the  bell 
rings  for  worship  on  Lord's  day.  With  regard 
to  preaching,  the  brethren  take  it  in  alphabetical 
order.  Imagine  to  yourself  how  delightful  it 
must  be  to  hear  the  sound  of  the  church-going 
bell  in  the  wide  Atlantic.  It  fills  one  with  pleas- 
ing emotions,  I  assure  you.  The  first  Monday  in 
each  month  we  occupy  an  hour  in  offering  up  our 
petitions,  with  those  of  many  others,  for  the  uni- 
versal spread  of  the  gospel.  Wednesday  night 
we  have  prayer  meeting  again,  and  Thursday 
night  we  have,  either  from  brother  Sutton  or 
brother  Malcom,  a  lecture.  Brother  S.  lectures 
on  heathen  mythology,  and  brother  M.  on  missions 
generally.  Sabbath  night  we  have  prayer  meet- 
ing also.  Thus,  dear  brother,  you  see,  we  are 
not  void  of  religious  enjoyment.  Though  in  a 
bark  built  by  the  feeble  hands  of  man,  tossed 
about  by  every  breeze,  on  this  vast  ocean,  still  do 
we  enjoy  the  light  of  God's  countenance." 

A  Letter  to  her  Father. 

"  NOT.  14. 

I  have  been  thinking  a  great  deal  lately  about 
thai  sweet  camp-ground,  on  which  so  many  of 
my  happy  days  have  been  enjoyed.  'Twas  there 


LETTER   TO    HER    FATHER.  53 

I  publicly  professed  to  be  one,  whose  desire  it 
was  to  follow  the  meek  and  lowly  Jesus,  through 
evil  as  well  as  good  report.  On  that  ground  have 
I  listened  with  delight  to  the  voices  of  a  K..,  a  J., 
and  a  B.,  whose  names  shall  always  be  deeply 
engraved  on  the  pages  of  my  heart.  But  I  have 
taken  my  last  look  at  that  sweet  spot.  I  shall  no 
more  hear  those  dear  brethren  preach.  I  well  re- 
member what  my  feelings  were  the  morning  of 
the  last  day  I  ever  spent  there ;  and  when  my 
dear  brother  K.  bade  me  good-by,  I  am  certain 
his  thoughts  were  similar  to  mine ;  for  as  soon 
as  he  took  my  hand  in  his,  he  burst  into  a 
flood  of  tears,  though  neither  of  us  knew,  at  that 
time,  that  I  should  bid  you  all  farewell  so  soon. 
I  delight  to  think  of  those  by-gone  days,  not  be- 
cause I  regret  that  I  have  left  you  all,  but  because 
I  think  that  I,  as  well  as  my  friends,  enjoyed  the 
presence  of  my  Saviour." 

Journal.  —  "Nov.  17.  I  have  this  day  medi- 
tated much  on  the  vanity  of  all  earthly  things. 
What  is  there  below  heaven  worth  living  for,  but 
to  serve  the  Lord  ?  Then  why  is  it  that  I  serve 
him  with  so  little  fervor?  At  how  great  a  dis- 
tance do  I  live  from  him  !  How  cold  and  lifeless 
are  my  affections !  Indeed,  I  sometimes  doubt 
whether  I  am  truly  a  Christian.  '  Do  I  love  the 
Lord  ?'  is  with  me  often  an  anxious  inquiry. 

'  Te  that  love  the  Lord  indeed, 
Tell  me,  is  it  thus  with  you  ? ' 

18.     We  are  now  sailing  at  the  rate  of  seven 
miles  an  hour,  and  if  we  go  on  thus,  we  hope  to 
reach  the  Cape  in  fifteen  or  twenty  days.     We 
5* 


54  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

have  had  quite  a  pleasant  little  meeting  tonight. 
Two  of  our  number  were  absent  on  account  of 
sickness.  My  health  is  a  little  improved.  '  Sea- 
sickness '  seems  to  have  bid  me  a  final  adieu  :  I 
think  its  visit  was  unusually  long,  and  I  am  not 
anxious  to  welcome  its  return. 

Dec.  2.  Yesterday  spoke  an  English  ship,  and 
all  the  females,  with  the  exception  of  one,  visited 
her.  It  was  something  unusual  to  be  visiting  in 
the  Atlantic  Ocean,  so  near  the  Cape  of  Good 
Hope  —  an  occurrence  which  to  our  knowledge 
never  before  took  place.  We  returned  delighted 
with  our  trip.  The  captain  was  very  polite, 
treated  us  to  many  little  niceties,  and,  when  we 
were  about  to  leave,  gave  us  two  bottles  of  milk 
and  a  loaf  of  bread. 

15.  In  looking  over  my  journal,  I  perceive  that 
I  have  written  none  since  the  3d.  During  this 
time,  I  have  been  so  sick  that  I  have  been  unable 
to  walk,  stand,  or  sit.  We  have  had  very  rough 
weather  for  the  last  week.  I  really  thought,  at 
some  times,  that  our  ship  would  upset,  and  turn 
us  out  into  the  sea." 

A  Letter. 

"ATLANTIC  OCEAW,  DEC.  25 
Very  dear  and  beloved  Father, 

Emotions  of  gratitude  swell  my  bosom  as  I 
find  myself  again  able  to  address  a  letter  to  you. 
For  the  last  seventeen  days,  I  have  been  entirely 
unfit  for  employment  of  any  kind  ;  but  the  Lord 
has  in  mercy  raised  me  from  a  bed  of  sickness, 
and  I  behold  another  Christmas  day.  I  have 
been  this  morning  contrasting  my  situation  with 


LETTER   TO    HER   FATHER  55 

what  it  was  this  day  twelve  months ;  and  a  vast 
change  I  find.  Then  I  was  in  my  grandfather's 
house,  attending  to  poor  little  sick  Bell ;  and 
although  I  was  then  separated  from  you  and  the 
rest  of  the  family,  yet  I  could  often  hear  from 
you.  But  now  many  thousands  of  miles  lie 
between  us ;  nor  can  I  see,  nor  hear  from,  those 
whom  I  most  ardently  love.  I  shall  soon,  if  noth- 
ing happens  to  prevent,  reach  Asia — a  stranger 
in  a  strange  land,  surrounded  by  poor  idolatrous 
beings.-  Meditating  on  these  subjects,  I  was  led 
to  ask  myself,  Where  shall  I  be  pext  Christmas 
day?  Ah!  this  question  must  remain  unan- 
swered. Perhaps  I  shall  have  bid  a  long  adieu 
to  earth  and  all  earthly  concerns,  and  be  feasting 
on  the  smiles  of  my  Saviour.  It  seems,  if  I 
knew  this  would  be  my  happy  condition,  I  should 
at  this  moment  cry  aloud  with  joy. 

Jan.  14, 1836.  We  are  now  within  two  weeks' 
sail  of  Calcutta.  I  assure  you  I  feel  rejoiced  to  think 
we  are  so  near  land.  The  ocean,  de;ir  pa',  has 
no  charms  for  me.  A  sea  voyage  is  clothed  in 
terror  to  me.  I  remember,  when  you  were  talking 
to  me  about  becoming  a  missionary,  you  remind- 
ed me  of  rainy  difficulties  which  I  should  meet, 
one  of  which  was  '  seasickness.'  I  supposed  it 
must  be  a  disagreeable  complaint,  but,  I  assure 
you,  I  knew  not  how  dreadfully  dreadful  it  is. 
Still,  if  I  were  now  in  America,  and  knew  just 
the  same  I  do,  I  should  venture  to  cross  the  ocean, 
if  there  could  be  no  other  way  of  getting  to 
Asia." 

Journal.  —  "  Feb.  4.  After  having  sailed  about 
17,800  miles,  we  to-day  anchored  at  Kedgeree,' 


56  MEMOIR   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

(a  small  village  at  the  mouth  of  the  Hoogly  Rive.i, 
ninety  miles  below  Calcutta.)  "  Mr.  Shuck  went 
ashore  very  soon,  and  was  much  pleased  with  all 
he  saw.  I  shall  go  this  evening,  as  the  sun  is 
now  very  hot,  and  I  recollect  my  father  cautioned 
me  against  exposing  myself  to  the  sun.  The  na- 
tives have  brought  us  a  great  quantity  of  fruit  to 
sell  us;  also,  eggs,  fowls,  milk,  and  vegetables. 
We  bought  some  of  their  fruit,  and  I  like  all 
kinds  very  much. 

At  night.  We  all  went  ashore  this  evening. 
I  felt  truly  pleased  to  be  again  on  land.  The 
native  huts  remind  me  of  our  haystacks.  We. 
visited  the  only  white  family  in  the  place.  They 
were  very  polite  and  kind  to  us.  The  climate 
here  is  very  delightful.  It  is  cooler  than  it  has 
ever  been  known  to  be  —  at  least,  for  50  or  GO 
years.  The  Americans  have  several  times  ship- 
ped ice  to  this  country,  and  the  natives  say,  that 
is  the  cause  of  its  being  so  cool.  Poor  ignorant 
creatures !  Their  dress  consists  of  a  small  piece 
of  cloth  wrapped  around  their  loins.  You  can- 
not, my  dear  pa',  tell  how  I  feel,  when  I  see  that 
I  am  surrounded  by  a  people  who  know  nothing 
of  Jesus.  I  bless  the  Lord  that  I  am  here.  I 
feel  more  anxious  than  ever  to  labor  for  the  desti- 
tute heathen.  Yes,  in  a  heathen  land  let  me  live, 
and  let  me  die. 

Feb.  5.  Again  visited  land.  Saw  some  beau- 
tiful trees  and  flowers.  The  cocoa-nut  tree  pre- 
sents a  lovely  view.  It  is  tall  and  slender,  differ- 
ent from  the  pine-apple,  which  is  a  mere  stump. 
As  soon  as  we  landed  this  morning,  the  poor 
degraded  females  flocked  around  us  to  beg  for 
money.  When  they  found  we  could  not  give 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.       57 

them  any  thing,  they  would  hold  up  to  us  their 
children,  hoping  thereby  to  excite  us  to  bestow 
our  charity  on  them.  It  is  perfectly  useless  to 
give  these  poor  women  any  thing,  for  the  more 
you  give,  the  more  you  may.  Nothing  seems  to 
satisfy  them.  I  saw  some  beautiful  little  native 
children,  and  I  offered  to  buy  one,  merely  to  see 
what  the  mother  would  say.  But  she  imme- 
diately drew  the  babe  to  her,  and  said,  in  Eng- 
lish, as  well  as  she  could,  '  O !  no,  me  can't  sell 
child.'  They  are  all  very  fond  of  their  children. 

Mr.  S.  has  bought  me  a  goat  and  a  little  kid. 
We  go  out  night  and  morning  to  milk  her. 
Goats'  milk  is  much  richer  than  cows' ;  but  they 
give  only  a  little.  I  am  now  in  very  good  health 
—  have  not  been  '  seasick '  for  some  time. 

Feb.  6.  Left  Kedgeree,  and  are  now  proceed- 
ing on  our  way  to  Amherst.  The  distance  from 
K.  to  A.  is  about  1200  miles.  We  hope  to  get 
there  in  ten  or  twelve  days. 

19.  We  are  now  in  sight  of  Burmah's  dark, 
benighted  land.     We  can  see  distinctly  from  the 
ship  the  tall  pagodas  which  are  worshipped  by  the 
poor  heathen.     What  happy  feelings  fill  my  mind 
at  this  time !     I  am   now   in   sight  of  that  land 
where  I  have  so  often  desired  to  be. 

20.  Went  ashore  at  Arnherst.     Saw  the  grave 
of  the  devoted  Mrs.  Judson.     By  her  side,  in  the 
same  bamboo  enclosure,  lies  her  little  Maria. 

'  They  slevp  in  JCSUB,  and  arc  blest ; 
Uow  iwcet  their  slumbers  are  !' 

I  shall  send  you  a  small  branch  of  the  famed 
'  hopia-tree.'  One  of  the  missionaries  from 
Maulmain,  (Mr.  Osgood,)  who  came  out  last  year, 
in  the  Cashmere,  with  brother  and  sister  Wade, 


58  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

hearing  of  our  arrival,  has  come  down  to  conduct 
us  up  to  his  house." 


,  FEB.  26,  1836. 

Very  dearest  Father, 

In  the  providence  of  my  heavenly  Father  I 
am  again  permitted  to  write  you,  and  I  rejoice  to 
inform  you  that  my  health  is,  at  this  time,  per- 
fectly good.  Mr.  S.  and  I  have  enjoyed  the  com- 
pany of  the  missionaries  here  very  much.  We 
stay  with  sister  Hancock,  whose  husband  is  now 
gone  to  distribute  tracts.  She  is  a  sweet  woman, 
and  reminds  me  much  of  my  own  dear  mother. 
Brother  Judson  lives  next  door.  I  am  also 
charmed  with  him  and  his  wife.  She  is  a  noble- 
looking  woman,  and  appears  very  young.  All 
the  missionaries  here  have  treated  us  with  the 
greatest  kindness. 

I  was  very  much  surprised  to  see  that  the  mis- 
sionaries live  in  so  much  comfort.  Their  houses 
are  very  nice,  cool,  and  large,  made  of  bamboo  ; 
and  as  to  living,  I  would  as  lief  be  here  as  in 
America.  The  fruits  are  truly  delicious.  I  have 
never  eaten  better  watermelons  than  are  here; 
and  we  can  obtain  vegetables  of  all  kinds.  All 
we  now  need  is  the  grace  of  God  to  sanctify  and 
comfort  our  hearts. 

I  have  seen  many  of  the  dear  Christian  natives. 
They  seem  delighted  to  have  us  come.  An  old 
lady  told  one  of  the  sisters  to  ask  me  if  I  left  any 
friends  to  come  here.  I  replied,  I  left  six  brothers 
and  sisters;  and  a  father  and  step-mother.  She 
looked  at  me  very  sorrowfully,  and  said,  '  Poor 
creature  !  It  is  a  great  proof  of  her  love  to  us.' 

This  morning  Mr.  Shuck   and  I  walked  to  a 


EXTRACTS    FROM.  HER   JOURNAL.  59 

Bazar  which  the  natives  have  here,  and  I  bought 
me  a  nice  shawl,  and  some  other  little  things. 
They  have  almost  every  thing  which  you  can  call 
for.  I  have  seen  their  pagodas  and  their  gods  — 
gods  which  I  hope  will  erelong  be  worshipped  by 
them  no  longer. 

I  must  bid  you  again  adieu.  Kiss  my-  beloved 
little  brothers  and  sisters  for  me.  Dear  children ! 
I  hope  the  Lord  may  adopt  them  all  as  his  own. 
Adieu,  father,  mother,  sisters,  brothers,  all  fare- 
well. 

Your  dear  absent  daughter, 

HENRIETTA  SHUCK." 

Journal.  —  "  Feb.  28.  After  spending  a  week 
with  our  dear  friends  at  Maulmain  we  bade  them 
farewell,  and  took  up  our  abode,  in  the  old  Louvre. 
There  are  but  two  passengers  besides  Mr.  S.  and 
myself,  and  brother  Reed  and  his  wife.  We  are 
now  on  our  way  to  Penang.  It  is  likely  we  shall 
remain  there  about  a  week. 

Mar.  8.  We  are  now  within  two  hundred  and 
seventy  miles  of  Penang.  Weather  very  good. 
Last  Sabbath  brother  Reed  preached  in  the  fore- 
noon, and  Mr.  Shuck  at  night.  Monday,  being 
the  first  in  the  month,  we  had  a  prayer  meeting. 
There  were  only  four  persons  present,  but  we  en- 
joyed ourselves,  remembering  the  promise  of  the 
Lord  to  the  few  who  meet  in  his  name. 

We  are  very  much  encouraged  respecting  the 
sailors.  Five  of  them  have  professed  an  interest 
in  the  Redeemer.  Three  have  applied  for  bap- 
tism. It  has  been  some  time  since  they  enter- 
tained a  hope ;  but  I  did  not  like  to  say  much 
about  it,  for  I  was  fearful  it  might  be  a  mere  pro- 


60  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

fession.  We  all  feel  satisfied  now,  as  far  as  we 
can  judge,  that  they  have,  indeed,  passed  from 
death  unto  life. 

Mar.  21.  As  circumstances  have  prevented 
me  from  keeping  a  journal,  for  the  last  several 
days,  I  will  now  mention  all  that  has  come  un- 
der rny  observation,  during  this  time,  worth  re- 
lating. 

We  arrived  at  Penang,  on  Wed.  the  15th,  and 
there  remained  until  the  20th  inst.,  at  which  time 
we  set  sail  for  Singapore.  During  my  stay  in 
Penang,  I  saw  much  to  interest  and  please  the 
mind  of  an  American.  It  is,  I  think,  without  ex- 
ception, the  loveliest  spot  I  have  ever  beheld 
Truly, 

<  Every  prospect  pleases, 
And  only  man  is  vile  ' 

I  suppose  there  are  about  fifteen  European  fam- 
ilies who  reside  there  —  among  them  are  two  mis- 
sionaries with  their  wives,  Messrs.  Beighton  and 
Davis.  The  former  is  in  the  Malay  department, 
the  latter  in  the  Chinese.  Mr.  B.  has  been  labor- 
ing in  Penang  seventeen  years,  and  has  no  satis- 
factory evidence  that  one  single  soul  has  been 
brought  to  the  knowledge  of  the  true  God.  Why 
is  it  that  their  labors  have  not  been  blessed  ?  Mr. 
D.  has  but  recently  come  to  this  place ;  conse- 
quently, he  knows  but  little  of  the  language.  He 
seems  to  think  it  almost  impossible  for  one  to  ac- 
quire the  Chinese  language;  but  I  do  not  feel  at 
all  discouraged,  for  I  know  if  the  Lord  has  any 
thing  for  me  to  do,  he  will  give  strength  to  per- 
form it. 

The  climate  of  Penang  is  truly  delightful. 
Mr.  Shuck  and  I  took  some  very  pleasant  rides 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.       61 

in  the  palanquins.  These  are  drawn  by  horses, 
and  are  built  like  our  carryalls.  The  streets  are 
very  neat  and  regular.  We  saw  a  great  many 
nutmeg-trees  and  pine-apples  grow  wild.  I  felt 
desirous  that  my  dear  little  brothers  and  sis- 
ters should  have  some,  as  they  are  so  very  abun- 
dant here.  There  is  a  great  quantity  of  fruits 
here.  I  am  fond  of  nearly  all  kinds;  but  Amer- 
icans generally  dislike  the  fruits  of  Asia,  on  first 
coming  here. 

We  are  now  on  our  way  to  Singapore,  and  I 
know  not  but  that  our  ship  will  be  attacked  by 
pirates.  .  They  are  great  in  number,  and  will  sel- 
dom permit  a  vessel  to  pass  without  endeavoring 
to  take  it.  Our  men  have  to-day  been  getting 
their  guns  and  swords  in  order  (for  defence) 
should  they  interfere  with  us.  We  know  not 
what  is  before  us ;  but  we  recollect  that  '  they 
who  trust  in  the  Lord  shall  be  as  Mount  Zion.' 
An  English  bark,  called  the  Bright  Planet,  is  in 
company  with  us,  on  her  way  to  Singapore. 
The  two  vessels,  being  so  close  together,  may 
have  some  effect  in  keeping  the  pirates  off. 

22.  Through  the  kindness  of  our  heavenly 
Father,  we  have  been  protected  through  the  past 
night  from  all  robbers,  and  are  spared  to  behold 
the  beauties  of  another  day.  We  see  the  pirati- 
cal vessels  at  a  distance ;  we  think  they  take  our 
ship  to  be  a  man  of  war,  and  therefore  are  afraid 
to  venture  near  us. 

28.  We  are  now  within  twenty-five  miles  of 
Singapore,  and  thus  far  we  have  met  with  noth- 
ing to  mar  our  peace.  Surely,  the  Lord  is  good. 
As  we  have  but  little  wind,  we  do  not  expect  to 
get  into  port  before  to-morrow  afternoon.  Is  it 
6 


t>2  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

possible  I  am  now  so  near  my  place  of  destina- 
tion ?  Yesterday,  no  doubt,  was  the  last  Sabbath 
that  I  shall  ever  spend  on  board  the  Louvre. 
Mr.  Shuck  preached,  perhaps,  his  last  sermon  to 
the  sailors.  There  are  but  three  of  them  who 
give  satisfactory  evidence  of  being  truly  pious; 
and  only  two  wish  to  be  baptized.  •  The  other 
seems  to  think  that  sprinkling  will  do  as  well  as 
baptism.  O  that  the  Lord  may  be  with  them 
on  their  way  back  to  America,  and  keep  them 
from  the  contaminations  of  their  wicked  com- 
panions ! " 


(63  ) 


CHAPTER    III. 

Singapore  — The  Arrival  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shuck  at  this  Place  — Ei- 
tracU  from  Mrs.  Shuck's  Correspondence  and  Journal  during  her 
Residence  there. 

THE  town  of  Singapore  is  on  a  small  island  of 
the  same  name,  lying  at  the  southern  extremity 
of  the  Malay  peninsula,  about  two  degrees  north 
of  the  equator.  It  was  founded  by  the  British,  in 
1819,  and  soon  became  a  place  of  great  commercial 
importance.  It  is  under  the  government  of  the 
East  India  Company.  It  is  a  beautiful  place,  and 
has  a  delightful  climate.  Here  Mr.  and  Mrs. 
Shuck  landed  on  the  31st  of  March,  1836,  and 
found  a  temporary  home.  A  few  extracts  from 
Mrs.  Shuck's  letters  and  journal,  written  during 
her  residence  here,  will  furnish  some  interesting 
information,  and  exhibit  the  state  of  her  feelings 
on  witnessing  the  degrading  influence  of  idolatry. 

A  Letter  to  her  Father. 

"  APRIL  21. 

It  is  more  than  probable  that  Singapore  will 
be  our  home  for  the  next  two  or  three  years,  or  at 
least  until  (should  the  blessed  Lord  open  a  way) 
we  can  enter  China.  Of  this,  however,  I  cannot 
speak  with  certainty,  as  we  are  not  our  own,  but 
the  Lord's,  and  must  hold  ourselves  in  readiness 


64  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

to  go  where  and  when  he  shall  direct.  It  is  said 
by  the  missionaries  here,  that  Malacca,  Penang, 
Singapore,  or  Batavia,  are  all  better  places  to 
study  the  Chinese  language  than  Bankok.  Mr. 
S.  has  written  to  Dr.  Bolles  to  inform  him  of  this 
and  other  things,  and  until  we  hear  from  him 
we  shall  remain  here. 

I  had  indulged  the  hope  that  when  I  arrived 
here,  I  should  find  letters  from  my  dear  friends ; 
but  I  was  disappointed.  We  have  been  here  three 
weeks,  and  day  after  day  passes  on,  but  no  letters 
come.  Seven  long,  long  months  to-morrow,  since 
I  heard  from  my  dear  pa1  !  Surely,  surely,  I  am 
anxious  to  have  some  tidings  of  you.  However, 
I  will  not  complain,  but  content  myself  with  the 
pleasing  hope  that  I  shall  erelong  receive  a  large 
number  of  letters  from  my  dear,  dearest  relatives, 
now  so  many  thousands  of  miles  from  me. 

I  will  just  here  repeat  that  I  am  wonderfully 
pleased  with  our  cook.  His  name  is  Ah  Loo. 
He  can  do  any  thing,  and  every  thing,  I  believe. 
He  will  frequently  cook  some  little  nice  thing  for 
a  dessert,  without  our  telling  him.  To-day,  for 
dinner,  he  gave  us  a  very  delicious  pine-apple  pie. 
I  call  him  a  cook,  because  cooking  is  his  chief 
business  ;  but  he  by  no  means  confines  himself  to 
that  occupation.  In  the  morning  he  comes  in  and 
sweeps  all  the  rooms,  and  verandah,  or  porch,  sets 
the  table,  brings  in  meals,  and  we  shall  need  no 
other  servant.  I  prefer  keeping  my  chamber  in 
order  myself;  but  if  Ah  Loo  sees  me  sweeping, 
he  comes  deliberately,  and  takes  the  broom  out 
of  my  hand,  and  does  it  himself.  The  Chinese 
servants  very  soon  become  attached  to  those  whom 
they  serve,  and  are  unwilling  to  leave  them.  We 


LETTER   TO    HER   SISTERS.  65 

hope  this  may  be  the  case  with  our  man,  for  if 
he  continues  to  please  us  we  shall  be  very  unwill- 
ing to  give  him  up.  We  are  truly  attached  to 
him,  and  wish  him  to  live  with  us  on  earth  and 
in  heaven. 

A  Letter  to  her  Sisters. 

"MAT  13. 

As  I  believe  it  will  always  gladden  your 
hearts  to  hear  from  your  dear  absent  sister,  I 
have  this  evening  put  down  my  work  and  books, 
for  the  purpose  of  writing  a  few  hasty  lines  to 
you.  You  are,  dear  children,  though  separated 
by  thousands  of  miles,  still  dear  to  me,  and  not 
unfrequently  does  my  mind  turn  back  to  many 
joyful  hours  we  have  spent  together  under  our 
dear  father's  roof.  And  have  these  happy  hours 
passed  to  return  no  more  ?  Yes,  dearest  sisters, 
it  is  even  so.  And  I  am  here  led  to  ask,  Are  you 
anxious  to  meet  me  in  a  better  world  1  If  so, 
why  not  endeavor  to  serve  the  same  Being  that  1 
profess  to  serve  ?  'Tis  not  enough  that  we  attend 
the  Sabbath  School  —  listen  to  the  preached  gos- 
pel —  read  our  Bibles  —  and  say  our  prayers. 
Though  these  things  are  done  by  all  true  disci- 
ples of  the  blessed  Saviour,  (as  they  have  oppor- 
tunity,) yet  something  else  must  be  attended  to. 
We  must  confess  our  sins,  and  forsake  them. 
Have  you,  dearest  children,  repented  of  your  sins? 
If  not,  I  assure  you  it  is  time  so  to  do.  You 
may  think  that  you  are  too  young ;  but  recollect 
that  death  snatches  away  the  young  as  well  as  the 
old.  Put  not  off,  then,  I  beseech  you,  the  time  of 
making  your  peace  with  God.  I  wrote  a  long 
letter  to  you  on  board  ship,  on  the  subject  of  re- 
6* 


66  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

ligion.  Perhaps  you  have  received  it,  and  have 
already  renounced  your  evil  ways,  and  are  now 
walking  in  the  path  which  the  children  of  God 
should  tread.  Happy,  happy  should  I  be  to  hear 
this  of  you.  The  Lord  grant  it. 

I  have  obtained  a  Malay  teacher,  and  shall 
study  two  hours  every  day  until  I  acquire  that 
language,  which,  being  so  simple,  can  soon  be 
learned.  I  should  at  once  commence  Chinese, 
but  the  facilities  for  learning  it  are  very  few,  and 
my  dear  husband  thinks  it  better  for  me  to  post- 
pone it  a  few  months.  I  do  not  intend  by  any 
means  to  give  it  up  entirely,  although  it  is  gen- 
erally thought  that  the  Chinese  is  too  difficult  for 
the  weak  mind  of  a  female.  There  is  a  lady 
now  in  Singapore,  who  speaks  Chinese  very 
fluently ;  so  I  suppose,  '  What  woman  has  done, 
woman  can  do.'  " 

Letter  to  Mrs.  J.  C.  K.  and  Miss  V.  R. 

"  MAT. 
Beloved  Sisters, 

In  accordance  with  a  promise  given  you  a 
short  time  before  I  bade  a  last  adieu  to  the  shores 
of  my  much-loved  native  land,  I  now  sit  down 
to  write  you  a  hasty  line  or  two.  I  would  write 
separate  letters  were  it  convenient  just  now,  but 
the  Louvre  will  leave  here  in  a  few  days.  The 
shortness  of  time,  therefore,  and  numerous  engage- 
ments, compel  me  now  to  present  you  a  joint  let- 
ter. Had  I  even  enjoyed  a  tolerable  degree  of 
health,  I  should  feel  myself  inexcusable  for  not 
having  written  to  you  both  during  the  voyage ; 
but  I  feel  assured  that  you  will  pardon  this  neglect 


LETTER  TO   MRS.   J.    C.    K.    AND   MISS   V.   R.      67 

when  I  inform  you  that  I  was  '  seasick '  nearly 
every  day  whilst  I  remained  on  board  ship. 
However,  it  was  the  blessed  Lord  who  afflicted 
me,  and  I  will  not  murmur.  Though  I  was, 
dear  sisters,  so  incessantly  sick,  and  sometimes 
thought  that  I  should  find  a  watery  grave,  yet 
my  heavenly  Father  has  seen  fit  to  restore  me  to 
perfect  health,  and  has  permitted  me  to  travel  all 
the  way  from  loved  America  to  this  place,  where 
I  am  surrounded  by  millions  of  perishing  souls. 
Do  I  not  bless  God  that  I  have  been  thus  highly 
favored?  Yes,  it  is  a  privilege  which  I  have 
long  desired ;  and,  now  that  I  am  here,  I  need 
much  of  the  spirit  of  my  adorable  Master,  who, 
whilst  he  was  on  earth,  went  about  doing  good. 
I  need  much  to  qualify  me  for  the  glorious  work 
in  which  I  hope  to  be  engaged  until  the  glimmer- 
ing taper  of  life  shall  cease  to  burn.  And  may 
I  not,  dearest  sisters,  request  your  prayers  for 
myself,  and  beloved  companion,  who  has  already 
enjoyed  himself  much  in  talking  to  the  heathen, 
and  giving  them  books  ? 

When  we  arrived  at  this  place,  we  expected  to 
proceed  immediately  to  Bankok ;  but  now  we 
cannot  say  where  we  are  to  live,  as  it  is  thought 
by  the  missionaries  in  Burmah,  and  in  this  place, 
that  we  should  have  many  more  facilities  for 
acquiring  the  Chinese  language  in  Singapore 
than  elsewhere.  Mr.  Reed  and  Mr.  Shuck  have 
no  connection  with  the  Siam  mission,  which  I 
suppose  you  know. 

Singapore  is  said  to  be  the  healthiest  situation 
in  all  Eastern  Asia.  There  are,  I  suppose,  about 
one  hundred  Europeans  here,  and  I  am  grieved 
to  say,  that  they  are,  according  to  the  privileges 


68  MEMOIB   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

they  have  enjoyed,  worse  than  the  heathen  by 
whom  they  are  surrounded.  I  long  to  be  in  some 
spot  in  the  midst  of  thousands  of  heathen,  and 
have'  no  European  within  hundreds  of  miles  of 
me,  for  certainly  the  conduct  of  most  of  them 
retards  the  progress  of  the  blessed  gospel.  There 
are  three  male  missionaries  here  belonging  to  the 
American  Board  of  Foreign  Missions.  Two  of 
them  are  single  —  one  is  studying  the  Chinese 
language,  and  expects  to  enter  China  Proper,  and 
the  other  is  paying  attention  to  Malay,  with  the 
intention  of  laboring  in  Borneo.  There  is  one 
printer  here  from  the  same  Board  ;  also,  a  young 
man  of  the  London  Missionary  Society  studying 
Chinese,  who  hopes  to  labor  in  China. 

Singapore  is  under  the  English  government, 
and,  with  Penang  and  Malacca,  forms  one  presi- 
dency. There  are  in  the  city  of  Singapore  be- 
tween fifteen  and  twenty  thousand  Chinese,  from 
four  to  six  thousand  Malays,  and  two  or  three 
thousand  of  other  nations.  Delicious  fruits  of 
various  kinds  grow  here.  The  best  pine-apples 
and  oranges  can  be  obtained  here  for  two  ceuts 
apiece." 

Journal, — "  May  17.  To-day  the  ship  which  bore 
me  far  away  from  home  and  friends,  left  this  port. 
Feelings  of  a  very  peculiar  kind  filled  my  bosom 
as  I  gazed  at  her  when  she  spread  her  sail,  know- 
ing that  she  will  in  a  few  months,  if  the  provi- 
dence of  God  favor,  reach  America,  the  home  of 
my  father,  and  the  land  of  my  early  days.  But 
I  felt  no  desire  to  return  with  her.  No  !  though 
nearly  every  tie  which  binds  me  to  earth  is  in  the 
land  whither  she  goes,  still  I  prefer  remaining 


EXTRACTS    FROM    HER   JOURNAL.  69 

oehind.  And  why  ?  That  I  may  benefit  the 
souls  of  the  degraded  heathen  in  whose  midst  I 
now  am.  My  friends,  I  confess,  are  truly  dear 
to  me,  but  I  trust  I  can  say,  '  The  cause  of  Christ 
is  much  dearer.'  It  would  mightily  enhance  my 
earthly  happiness  to  live  where  they  live,  and  die 
where  they  die ;  but  if  my  heavenly  Father  may 
be  better  glorified  by  my  bidding  them  adieu,  and 
taking  up  my  abode  in  a  land  of  strangers,  of 
idolatry  and  moral  death,  surely  I  prefer  it. 

25.  Mr.  S.  takes  a  walk  every  afternoon  for 
the  purpose  of  distributing  tracts.  This  evening 
I  accompanied  him.  It  was  truly  a  pleasure  to 
me  to  hear  him  converse  with  the  poor  perishing 
natives  in  their  own  tongue.  He  speaks  the 
Malay  language  very  well.  It  is,  I  suppose,  the 
most  simple  of  all  languages. 

27.  To-day,  while  walking  again  with  my 
dearest  companion,  I  met  with  several  Chinese 
women.  This  is  the  first  time  I  have  ever  seen 
one.  We  conversed  with  them  some  time  in 
Malay;  and  parted  with  the  promise  that  they 
would  call  on  me.  It  is  positively  forbidden  by 
the  government  of  China  for  their  males  and 
females,  and  particularly  the  latter,  to  leave  that 
country ;  but  such  is  the  absorbing  desire  of  the 
Chinese  for  money,  that  they  often  do  leave  their 
country,  and  hundreds  and  thousands  may  now 
be  found  scattered  in  various  parts  of  the  Eastern 
world,  working  hard,  both  by  day  and  night,  that 
they  may  gain  riches.  And  are  there  not  many 
in  America,  the  happy  land  of  Bibles,  who,  in 
this  respect,  are  similar  to  the  Chinese  ?  I  could 
name  some  who  seem  to  think  more  of  gaining 
wealth  than  of  saving  their  own  souls.  Alas! 


70  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

how  little  do  they  contemplate  the  striking  senti- 
ment of  the  Redeemer,  expressed  in  the  following 
words,  '  What  shall  it  profit  a  man  if  he  gain 
the  whole  world,  and  lose  his  own  soul?  '  And, 
again,  '  How  hardly  shall  a  rich  man  enter  into 
the  kingdom  of  heaven  ! ' 

28.  Commenced  studying  the  Chinese  lan- 
guage. I  feel  happy  to  think  I  have  at  last  made 
a  beginning,  and  I  sincerely  hope  to  go  on  with  it 
until  I  shall  be  able  to  communicate  the  truths 
of  the  gospel  to  the  multitude  who  speak  it. 

June  1.  There  being  at  this  time  five  female 
missionaries  in  Singapore,  we  deemed  it  expedient 
to  hold  a  female  missionary  prayer  meeting, 
hoping  thereby  to  benefit  our  own  souls,  and 
those  of  all  who  may  wish  to  attend.  This  was 
the  regular  afternoon  for  it.  There  was  no  one 
present,  however,  save  sister  Reed  and  myself; 
the  others  being  detained,  no  doubt,  on  some 
account  which  could  not  be  avoided.  Though 
we  were  few  in  number,  we  felt  that  our  wants 
were  many,  and  had  a  delightful  little  meeting. 
The  promise  of  our  blessed  Lord  to  two  or  three 
who  meet  in  his  name,  was  indeed  verified. 

We  are  very  highly  blessed  in  regard  to  re- 
ligious meetings,  considering  we  are  in  a  land 
where  there  are  very  few  who  love  to  worship 
the  true  God.  On  Sabbath  morning,  we  have 
the  privilege  of  assembling  in  the  English  chapel, 
where  we  hear  a  sermon  from  the  Rev.  Mr.  W. 
D.  or  T. 

22.  Since  I  last  wrote,  I  have  been  confined  to 
a  bed  of  sickness  and  suffering ;  but  my  heavenly 
Parent  has  in  a  measure  restored  me.  I  am  still, 
however,  unable  to  go  out.  During  my  illness, 


LETTER   TO    MKS.    KEELING.  71 

I  met  with  many  kind  and  attentive  friends. 
The  physician  was  remarkably  kind,  and  regular 
in  his  attendance,  and  my  dear  husband  staid 
by  my  bed  continually,  and  would  never  leave 
me  except  when  compelled." 

A  Letter  to  Mrs.  Keeling. 

»  JULT  27 

Many  mercies  have  attended  us  since  we  parted 
from  you  ;  and  now,  the  Lord  be  praised,  we  are 
enjoying  good  health,  and  are,  we  trust,  in  some 
degree  blessed  with  the  smiles  of  our  adorable 
Redeemer.  No  doubt,  were  we  to  meet,  face  to 
face,  your  first  inquiry  would  be,  '  How  do  you 
like  the  important  work  in  which  you  have 
engaged  ? '  I  have  as  yet,  dear  sister,  done  very 
little  for  the  perishing  heathen  ;  but  the  prospect 
of  being  erelong  able  to  communicate  to  them, 
in  their  own  tongue,  the  unsearchable  riches  of 
Christ,  imparts  to  me  a  happiness  to  which  I  have 
heretofore  been  a  stranger ;  nor  would  I  exchange 
my  situation  for  any  other  on  earth.  Yes,  dearest 
sister,  the  most  ardent  desire  of  my  heart  is  now, 
in  a  measure,  accomplished.  I  have  witnessed 
the  wretchedness  of  heathenism,  and  enough,  too, 
to  call  forth  every  exertion  on  my  part  to  snatch 
them  from  the  pit  to  which  the  wheels  of  time 
are  rapidly  bearing  them. 

We  hope  to  leave  this  place  in  a  few  months 
for  China,  but  we  do  not  know  where  will  be  our 
particular  location.  I  have  commenced  studying 
Chinese,  and  have  made  a  little  progress.  My 
dearest  husband  is  so  desirous  of  being  acquainted 
with  this  language,  that  he  studies  with  the  teacher 


72  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

five  hours  in  the  day  without  intermission,  during 
which  time,  the  room  echoes  with  the  lovely 
sounds — '  Kong,'  meaning  to  speak,  '  cheek,'  to 
read,  '  sumamee,'  what?  '  Chillee,'  this,  '  Tallo,' 
where  ?  and  their  kindred  beauties.  Mr.  S.  has 
made  encouraging  progress.  He  looks  forward, 
with  no  little  pleasure,  to  the  period  when  he 
shall  be  able  to  preach,  in  Chinese,  the  gospel  of 
Christ." 


(73) 


CHAPTER  IV. 


China  —  Origin  of  the  Name  —  It*  History  —  The  Province*  of  China 
—  It*  Language  —  Its  Religion  —  Confucianism  —  Budhism  —  Ta- 
oiiism  —  Their  Inefficacy. 

MRS.  SHUCK'S  next  letter  is  dated  at  Macao,  in 
China.  As  China  was  the  scene  of  her  subsequent 
labors  and  sufferings,  and  her  burial-place,  —  as 
the  opening  of  her  five  free  ports  for  foreign 
missionaries,  and  the  toleration  of  Christianity  in 
the  empire,  have  drawn  the  lively  attention  of  the 
Christian  world  towards  it,  —  and  as  it  has  been 
selected  by  the  Foreign  Mission  Board  of  the 
Southern  Baptist  Convention  as  the  principal  field 
of  their  missionary  operations,  it  is  proper  at  this 
point  to  furnish  some  account  of  it.  The  follow- 
ing information  is  derived  from  a  manuscript  vol- 
ume, entitled  "  Brief  Sketches  of  some  of  the 
Scenes  and  Characteristics  of  China,  by  Mrs. 
Henrietta  Shuck,  1841."  In  the  preface  she  says, 
'•  Particular  care  has  been  taken  to  have  the 
dates,  statements,  and  every  thing  correct.  The 
works  consulted,  and  of  which  considerable  use 
has  been  made,  are  the  '  Chinese  Repository,' 
Mr.  Davis's  recent  work  on  '  The  Chinese,'  '  The 
Indo-Chinese  Gleaner,'  and  several  minor  publi- 
cations." The  work  is  full  of  instruction  and  in- 
terest, and  at  some  future  day  it  may  be  given  to 
7 


74  MEMOIR    OF    MES.    SHT7CK. 

the  public.  We  have  selected,  from  fifty-three 
articles,  as  most  suitable  to  the  design  of  the 
present  volume,  those  on  China  —  The  Provinces 
—  The  Language  —  and  The  Religions. 

China. 

'"  The  Babylonian,  Persian,  Grecian,  Roman, 
and  Chinese  empires  were  all  contemporaneous  ; 
and,  while  the  former  only  exist  upon  the  page  of 
history,  CHINA  still  lives  in  vigor,  and  was  never 
at  any  former  period  so  extensive  in  point  of  ter- 
ritory as  during  the  present  dynasty.  The  imme- 
diate causes  of  her  perpetuity  have  been  differ- 
ently stated  by  different  individuals,  but  the 
prescribed  limits  of  the  present  work  will  admit 
of  no  investigation  with  regard  to  the  merits  or 
demerits  of  these,  as  well  as  many  other  opinions 
respecting  this  country.  There  is  little  doubt 
but  that  there  is  no  nation  now  living  on  the  face 
of  the  earth  which  has  claims  to  an  antiquity  so 
high.  By  some  the  Chinese  have  been  supposed 
to  have  been  a  colony  from  Egypt,  and  from  that 
class  of  persons,  under  the  jurisdiction  of  Ptole- 
my, called  Sinae.  In  all  Latin  writings  by  the 
Romish  missionaries  and  others,  the  country  is 
denominated  Sina,  and  the  people  Sinae.  The 
name  '  China '  is  foreign  to  the  Chinese  them- 
selves, and  the  origin  of  the  term  is  not  altogether 
clear.  The  Arabians,  who  were  probably  the 
first  foreigners  who  traded  to  any  extent  with  this 
•empire,  called  it  Tsinin,  or  Tsin,  which  was  the 
name  of  an  ancient  and  celebrated  state  in  the 
south  of  China,  near  the  present  province  of 
Fuhkien.  The  Portuguese,  who  were  the  first 

.It- 


SKETCHES   OF    CHINA.  75 

Europeans  that  doubled  the  Cape  of  Good  Hope, 
and  also  the  first  from  Europe  that  traded  with 
China,  coming  in  contact  with  the  Arabians, 
changed  the  Ts  into  C/t,  and  thus  called  the 
country  Chinian,  and  the  people  Chinians. 

From  Chinian  probably  came  the  English 
word  China,  which  at  present  is  so  extensively 
used.  China,  in  her  early  history,  was  divided 
into  a  number  of  states,  independent,  to  a  con- 
siderable degree,  of  each  other.  The  princes  of 
these  separate  divisions  soon  commenced  hostile 
contentions  with  one  another,  each  one  striving 
for  the  absolute  sway  of  the  whole  land.  The 
despot  who  succeeded  in  subjugating,  at  a  cruel 
expense  of  human  life,  the  dominions  of  his  fel- 
low-princes of  the  same  race,  ordered,  in  the  exer- 
cise of  his  absolute  and  assumed  control,  three 
hundred  thousand  workmen  to  erect  the  far-famed 
great  wall,  with  the  design  of  keeping  off  the 
hordes  of  Tartars,  who  had  already  begun  to 
make  inroads  upon  the  northern  frontier.  Soon, 
however,  this  dynasty  was  subverted,  and  another 
race  of  despots  was  seated  on  the  throne.  These 
soon  gave  place  to  others  still  more  powerful, 
until  more  than  twenty  successive  changes  had 
taken  place,  when  the  whole  empire  was  taken 
from  the  Chinese  by  the  Manchow  Tartars  in 
1643.  The  first  emperor  of  the  Tartar  dynasty 
was  Sun-che,  who  compelled  all  the  Chinese 
either  to  have  their  heads  shaved,  after  the  fashion 
of  the  Tartars,  or  to  have  them  taken  off.  Many 
chose  the  latter.  The  Chinese,  previous  to  this, 
wore  their  hair  in  a  bunch  on  the  top  of  the 
head  ;  but  at  present  they  glory  in  the  custom  of 
shaving  the  head,  and  in  wearing  the  long  cue, 


76  MEMO!*   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

which  was  forced  upon  them  by  their  Tartar  mas- 
ters. Sun-che  reigned  eighteen  years ;  and  Kang- 
he,  the  second  emperor  of  the  present  dynasty, 
ascended  the  throne  in  1661,  and  reigned  61 
years.  Kang-he  was  a  monarch  of  some  genius 
and  forethought.  He  encouraged  literature,  to 
some  extent,  throughout  the  empire,  and  has 
been  much  praised  by  the  Jesuit  missionaries,  to 
whom,  it  is  said,  he  showed  special  favors.  In 
1722,  Yung-Ching  took  the  helm  of  affairs,  and 
reigned  thirteen  years;  after  which,  in  1735,  the 
fourth  emperor,  Keen-Lung,  commenced  his 
reign,  which  continued  60  years.  The  Chinese 
empire  was  never  so  large  as  during  the  reign 
of  Keen-Lung.  To  this  emperor  was  the  un- 
successful embassy  of  Lord  M'Cartney.  Keen- 
Lung  was  succeeded  by  Kea-king  in  1795,  who 
filled  the  throne  25  years.  Another  unsuccessful 
embassy  from  England  under  Lord  Amherst  was 
to  this  emperor.  Taou-Kwang,  the  sixth,  and 
present  emperor  of  the  Tartar  dynasty,  ascended 
the  throne  on  the  24th  of  September,  1820,  and 
is  now  about  45  years  old.  The  term  Taou- 
Kwang,  which  means  the  glory  of  reason,  is  not 
the  emperor's  real  name,  but  a  title  which  he  as- 
sumed when  he  succeeded  to  the  monarchy. 
The  real  names  of  the  emperors  of  China  are 
said  to  be  so  very  sacred,  that  it  is  considered 
profanity  for  the  people  to  express  them,  and 
therefore  they  always  assume  other  titles,  when 
they  commence  their  reign,  and  by  which  they 
are  ever  afterwards  known.  China,  from  remote 
antiquity  to  the  present  time,  has  groaned  under 
an  absolute  despotism." 


SKETCHES    OF   CHINA.  77 

Provinces. 

"  The  vast  extent  of  territory  comprised  in  the 
Chinese  empire  is  estimated  at  three  millions 
one  hundred  thousand  and  four  hundred  square 
miles,  with  a  population  of  three  hundred  and 
sixty  millions.  Vast  and  extensive,  however,  as 
this  single  empire  is,  it  has  but  little  intercourse 
with  the  other  nations  of  the  earth.  This  great 
area  is  divided  into  eighteen  distinct  provinces. 
On  the  north  are  Chille,  Shang-tung,  Shan-se,  and 
Honarn  ;  on  the  east,  Keang-soo,  Gan-hwuy,  Che- 
keang,  and  Kuh-kien  ;  the  central  provinces  are 
Hoo-pih,  Hoo-nam,  and  Keang-se ;  Shen-se,  Kan- 
suh,  and  Sze-chuen  are  on  the  west;  and  the 
southern  provinces  Kwang-tung,  Kwang-se,  Yun- 
nan, and  Kwei-chow.  All  the  provinces  are 
divided  into  Foos,  Choos,  Tings,  and  Keens, 
which  are  possibly  somewhat  similar,  in  certain 
respects,  to  our  counties,  districts,  and  townships. 
At  the  head  of  each  of  these  divisions  there  is  a 
special  and  responsible  officer.  The  whole  popu- 
lation, throughout  the  land,  is  partitioned  off  into 
divisions  of  one  hundred  families,  and  these  are 
again  divided  into  classes  of  ten  families,  over 
each  of  which  division  is  also  placed  a  responsi- 
ble officer.  As  Kwang-tung,  or  Canton,  is  better 
known  to  Americans  and  Europeans,  than  any  of 
the  rest,  it  merits  the  first  notice.  This  province, 
being  exceedingly  rich  and  fertile,  produces  nu- 
merous articles  of  export.  Its  inhabitants  number 
about  nineteen  millions  one  hundred  and  seventy- 
four  thousand.  The  provincial  city,  Canton,  the 
only  place  at  present,  (1841,)  within  the  confinea 
of  this  great  land,  where  foreigners  are  permitted 

7" 


78  MEMOIR   OF   MES.    SHUCK. 

to  reside,  is  said  to  be  one  of  the  greatest  empo- 
riums in  all  Asia.  Its  population  is  exceedingly 
numerous,  many  thousands  of  whom  live  on  the 
water  in  small  boats,  which  are  their  only  habita- 
tions. The  people  of  Canton  greatly  excel  their 
countrymen  in  imitating  articles  of  foreign  man- 
ufacture, owing  to  the  intercourse  which  for 
so  many  years  they  have  had  with  foreigners. 
Kwang-se  produces  great  quantities  of  grain. 
The  mountains  are  rich  in  ore,  and  sometimes 
gold  mines  may  be  found.  The  government, 
however,  has  forbidden  these  mines  to  be  exten- 
sively worked,  for  fear  the  cultivation  of  the  soil 
will  be  neglected ;  husbandry  being  considered 
by  the  Chinese  the  most  honorable  employment 
of  man.  So  thought  William  Penn.  Unlawful 
ravages  are  frequently  committed  by  the  barba- 
rian inhabitants  of  the  adjacent  country.  Kwang- 
tung  and  Kwang-se  are  under  a  single  governor. 
Kwielin-foo  is  the  capital  of  Kwang-se.  The 
province  of  Kansuh  has  been  considerably  en- 
larged by  the  addition  of  the  Soungarian  dis- 
tricts of  Barkoul  and  Oroumtsi.  Its  mixed  in- 
habitants amount  to  upwards  of  fifteen  millions. 
Kwei-chow  is  a  mountainous  province,  and  pro- 
duces only  rice  in  small  quantities.  It  is  less 
populous  than  many  of  the  other  provinces. 
Keang-nan,  the  wealthiest  of  all  the  provinces,  is 
remarkable  for  its  splendid  silks  and  japanned 
goods.  Nanking,  the  former  capital  of  the  em- 
pire, has  been  abandoned  for  Peking.  This  was 
caused  by  Yung-lo  about  the  fifteenth  century. 
As  it  adds  to  the  interest  of  the  present  dynasty, 
they  retain  Peking  as  their  capital,  it  being  near 
their  native  country,  Mougden.  Nanking,  however, 


SKETCHES   OF   CHINA.  79 

is  more  central,  and  possesses  a  climate  far  superior 
to  that  of  Peking.  Many  years  ago,  Marco  Polo 
beautifully  described  a  little  island  situated  in 
this  province,  and  by  the  name  of  the  '  Golden 
Isle."  This  is  situated  in  the  Yang-sze-keang 
River,  not  far  from  its  mouth.  It  is  inhabited  by 
the  votaries  of  Budha,  and  abounds  in  temples 
dedicated  to  their  idol  gods.  Keang-nan  is  now 
divided  into  the  subordinate  provinces  of  Gan- 
hwuy  and  Keang-soo.  Shen-se  province  has 
Segan-foo  for  its  capital,  and  produces  sufficient 
food  to  meet  the  wants  of  its  inhabitants,  who 
number,  ten  millions  two  hundred  and  seven  thou- 
sand two  hundred  and  fifty.  This  province  in- 
cludes nearly  one  hundred  and  sixty-seven  thou- 
sand seven  hundred  square  miles.  Sze-chuen 
has  the  most  extensive  territory  of  all  the  prov- 
inces, comprising  one  hundred  and  seventy-five 
thousand  six  hundred  square  miles,  with  twenty 
millions  four  hundred  and  fifty-five  thousand 
and  six  hundred  inhabitants.  Ching-too-foo  is  its 
capital.  Much  of  the  soil  is  rendered  altogether 
unfit  for  cultivation  by  sand  flats  and  mountainous 
ridges.  Those  parts,  however,  which  admit  of 
cultivation,  are  found  to  be  rich  and  productive. 
Of  Yun-nan  and  Shan-se  provinces  we  can  say 
but  little,  except  that  they  are  thinly  inhabited, 
and  the  soil  barren.  The  former  is  very  moun- 
tainous, and  is  inhabited  by  many  barbarians  ;  but 
it  produces  opium,  and  also  silver  and  other 
metals.  Kuh-keen  province  comprises  fifty-seven 
thousand  one  hundred  and  fifty  square  miles, 
with  a  population  amounting  to  fourteen  millions 
seven  hundred  and  seventy  thousand  and  four 
hundred.  One  part  of  this  province,  reaching 


SO  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

towards  the  south,  is  exceedingly  barren  and  fruit- 
less, not  producing  a  sufficient  quantity  of  the 
necessaries  of  life  to  supply  the  natives.  How- 
ever, it  has  under  its  jurisdiction  Formosa,  called 
by  the  Chinese  '  Tei-wan,'  the  most  fertile  island 
in  the  world,  and  from  thence  it  is  supplied  with 
great  quantities  of  grain.  Formosa  is  denomi- 
nated the  granary  of  Fuh-ke'en.  The  north- 
ern portions  are  not  so  barren,  and  they  produce 
good  teas  in  abundance.  It  abounds  in  excellent 
harbors,  and  carries  on  a  brisk  trade.  Its  inhab- 
itants are  an  enterprising,  as  well  as  a  commercial 
people,  and  more  natives  emigrate  from  this  prov- 
ince to  the  southern  parts  of  Asia,  than  from  any 
other  part  of  the  empire.  Hoo-pih  and  Hoo-nan 
now  cover  the  area  which  was  formerly  known 
as  the  province  of  Hoo-kwang.  .The  chief  cities 
are  Woo-chang-foo  and  Chang-sha-foo.  These 
two  provinces  produce  nothing  for  exportation, 
though  the  Chinese  highly  extol  their  fertility  in 
their  writings.  Hoo-nan  province  is  regarded  as 
being  the  first  place  inhabited  by  Chinese.  Here 
it  is  said  Fuh-he  (an  emperor  of  the  mythologi- 
cal period)  held  his  court.  Its  population  num- 
bers twenty-three  millions  thirty-seven  thousand 
one  hundred  and  seventy-eight,  who  are  remarka- 
ble for  their  industry  and  skill,  and  also  for  their 
learning  and  talents.  Kae-fung-foo  is  the  capital. 
The  most  remarkable  incident  connected  with 
this  province  is,  that  it  is  the  birthplace  of  the 
founder  of  the  Ming  dynasty.  He  was  once  a  slave, 
but,  joining  a  body  of  insurgents  against  the  Mongol 
dynasty,  soon  became  the  chief  of  the  army,  and, 
proving  successful  in  quelling  the  Tartars  in  all 
their  battles,  he  finally  drove  them  from  the  land, 


SKETCHES   OF   CHINA.  81 

which  has  caused  him  to  receive  the  name  of 
Hoong-woo  —  the  '  Great  Warrior.'  Keang-se  has 
an  immense  population,  amounting  to  thirty  mil- 
lions four  hundred  and  twenty-six  thousand  six 
hundred  and  ninety,  dwelling  upon  seventy-two 
thousand  one  hundred  and  seventy-six  square 
miles  of  land.  Its  soil  is  fertile,  but  the  popu- 
lation being  so  very  great,  they  have  but  little 
grain  to  export.  The  mountains  abound  with  a 
variety  of  metal  mines.  The  principal  cities  are 
Nan-chang-foo  and  Paou-choo-foo.  The  Poy- 
ang  lake  is  in  this  province.  From  Keang-se  to 
Kwang-tung,  the  adjoining  province,  a  passage 
has  been  effected  through  a  ridge  of  mountains ; 
consequently  there  is  constant  intercourse  between 
the  two  provinces.  Che-keang  has  a  dense  popu- 
lation of  twenty-six  millions  two  hundred  and 
fifty-six  thousand  seven  hundred  and  eighty,  and 
contains  fifty-seven  thousand  two  hundred  square 
miles.  It  is  remarkable  for  its  fine  cities.  Hang- 
choo-foo,  the  capital,  is  celebrated,  throughout  the 
empire,  for  the  beautiful  and  romantic  scenery 
which  surrounds  it.  Che-keang  is  noted  for  its 
rich  emporiums,  splendid  silks,  and  green  teas. 
Its  chief  seaports  are  Wan-choo,  Chapo,  and 
Ningpo.  Shang-tung  cannot  boast  of  so  much 
wealth  as  Che-keang,  since  many  of  its  inhab- 
itants are  forced,  through  poverty,  to  forsake  their 
native  country,  and  seek  a  subsistence  elsewhere. 
This  may,  however,  not  proceed  altogether  from 
the  barrenness  of  the  soil.  It  has  a  numerous 
population,  amounting  to  twenty-eight  millions 
nine  hundred  and  fifty-eight  thousand  seven  hun- 
dred and  sixty,  with  only  fifty-six  thousand  eight 
hundred  square  miles.  Through  this  province  runs 


82  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

the  grand  canal.  Its  chief  seaports  are  Ting-choo- 
fbo  and  Kaou-choo-foo.  In  this  province  is  the 
birthplace  of  the  celebrated  Confucius.  Chih-le, 
or  Pih-chih-le,  the  province  in  which  the  imperial 
court  is  held,  is  sterile,  and  very  flat  and  sandy. 
Peking,  the  residence  of  the  emperor,  is  the  capi- 
tal of  the  province,  and  the  metropolis  of  the  whole 
empire,  and  is,  unquestionably,  the  largest  city 
on  the  Asiatic  continent.  The  province  contains 
fifty-nine  thousand  seven  hundred  square  miles, 
with  twenty-seven  millions  nine  hundred  thou- 
sand inhabitants.  The  whole  coast  is  bordered 
with  dangerous  shoals,  which  greatly  obstruct  the 
navigation." 

The  Language. 

"  The  written  language  of  China  is  alike  in- 
telligible to  the  inhabitants  of  Japan,  Cochin  Chi- 
na, Loo-choo,  and  Corea,  with  those  of  this  em- 
pire itself.  In  various  parts  of  all  these  countries, 
however,  the  pronunciation  of  the  characters 
widely  differs,  although  their  meaning  is  always 
the  same.  The  written  characters  are  inter- 
changeably understood  by  these  different  nations 
in  the  same  manner  that  the  Arabic  numbers 
are  also  comprehended  in  America  and  through- 
out all  Europe.  Thus,  as  Mr.  Davis  observes, 
taking  the  number  22,  a  Frenchman  calls  it 
venght  deux,  and  an  Italiau,  nnti  due.  These 
different  spoken  pronunciations  would  be  unin- 
telligible to  a  speaker  of  the  English  language, 
but  would  be  immediately  comprehended  were  the 
figures  22  written  down.  The  Chinese  numerals 
expressive  of  the  same  amount  are  read  by  the 
inhabitants  of  Peking,  urh-shih-urh,  and  by  the 


SKETCHES    OF   CHINA.  83 

natives  of  Canton,  ee-shap-ee,  although  both  par- 
ties write  them  precisely  alike.  This  advantage, 
which  is  characteristic  of  our  numerals  only,  be- 
longs to  the  whole  language,  not  only  of  China 
Proper,  but  of  all  those  other  nations  who  use  the 
same  characters,  and  affix  to  them  peculiar  local 
pronunciations.  The  universality  of  the  Chi- 
nese language,  therefore,  only  pertains  to  the 
written  character,  and  the  natives  who  live  in  dif- 
ferent regions,  and  read  the  same  books,  and  per- 
fectly understand  each  other  on  paper,  are,  in 
speech,  almost  mutually  unintelligible.  The  whole 
number  of  the  Chinese  characters  amount  to 
eighty  thousand  ;  but  a  thorough  knowledge  of 
three  or  four  thousand  is  sufficient  for  all  practi- 
cal purposes.  There  are  two  hundred  and  four- 
teen characters  which  are  denominated  radicals, 
and  one  or  more  of  these  enter  into  the  compo- 
sition of  every  character  in  the  language.  In  the 
native  dictionaries  all  the  characters  are  arranged 
under  their  appropriate  radicals,  which  facilitates 
the  finding  of  them,  and  very  frequently  gives  an 
insight  to  the  meaning  of  the  character  sought 
for.  Exclusive  of  the  variations  formed  by  the 
modulations  of  tones  and  aspirates,  there  are  in 
the  language  but  about  four  hundred  and  twelve 
significant  sounds.  There  being,  therefore,  so 
many  words,  between  whose  sounds  there  is  but 
the  minutest  difference,  the  natives,  in  order  to  be 
understood  by  each  other,  have  recourse  to  the 
use  of  two  words  meaning  the  same  thing.  Thus 
yung  signifies  everlasting,  and  yuen,  never-ending 
—  very  remote  ;  but  when  they  wish  to  convey  the 
idea  of  eternal,  or  eternity,  they  say  yung  yuen. 
There  being  no  inflection  whatever  in  the  Ian- 


84  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

guage,  a  great  many  particles  are  employed  as 
indispensable,  and  the  peculiar  positions  of  words 
in  a  sentence,  is  the  only  means  of  distinguishing 
their  relations  to  each  other.  Hence  it  becomes 
as  necessary  to  study  the  proper  collocation  of 
words,  as  to  become  familiar  with  their  common 
significations.  Verbs  must  always  follow  their 
agents,  and  precede  their  objects.  Time,  also, 
must  come  first,  as  ming  teen  lae,  to-morrow 
come ;  kin  teen  ken,  to-day  go.  The  pronouns 
are  varied  by  different  affixes,  as  gno,  I ;  gno  teih, 
mine ;  gno  mun,  we ;  ne,  you ;  ne  teih,  yours ; 
in-  mun,  ye;  ta,  he;  ta  teih,  his;  ta  mun,  they. 
There  are  many  words  (or  characters)  used  in 
writing  the  language,  which  they  do  not  employ 
in  speaking  it,  and  vice  versa.  The  Chinese  have 
six  different  forms  in  writing  the  characters  of 
their  language.  But  two  of  them,  however,  are 
in  most  general  use,  namely,  the  form  employed 
in  printing  books,  which  lays  more  claim  to  accu- 
.acy  and  perspicuity  than  freeness  and  elegance. 
The  second  is  the  most  studied  and  useful  form 
of  the  Chinese  characters,  combining  elegance 
with  correctness,  and  is  employed,  throughout  the 
country,  in  writing  all  papers  of  consequence.  A 
Chinese  who  cannot  write  in  this  style,  with  neat- 
ness and  accuracy,  has  no  valid  claim  to  literary 
merit  among  his  countrymen. 

The  third  form  is  the  king  shoo,  or  running 
hand;  but  it  does  not  admit  of  entire  freedom. 
The  pencil  is  carried  from  stroke  to  stroke,  with- 
out being  taken  up  from  the  paper ;  but  no  abbre- 
viations whatever,  unless  authorized  by  the  popu- 
lar native  dictionaries,  can  be  indulged  in.  This 
form  is  very  frequently  employed  in  prefaces  of 


SKETCHES    OF    CHINA.  85 

books,  and  it  is  the  general  handwriting  of  all 
neat  scribes.  The  fourth  is  an  abbreviation  of 
the  running  hand.  It  is  sometimes  used  in  keep- 
ing ordinary  accounts ;  but  to  understand  it  fully 
requires  a  special  study,  and  not  unfrequently 
well-educated  natives  fail  to  comprehend  it. 

The  fifth  is  the  shoo,  or  official  style,  and  was 
introduced  about  the  commencement  of  the  Chris- 
tian era.  It  was  originally  intended  for  govern- 
ment writers,  but  is  chiefly  used  for  inscriptions 
and  prefaces.  The  sixth  form  is  what  is  called 
by  foreigners  "  the  seal  character,"  being  now 
principally  used  for  seals.  It  is  the  most  ancient 
style  of  Chinese  writing,  and  is  the  first  offspring 
of  the  hieroglyphics  of  antiquity. 

Many  and  not  unfrequent  erroneous  observa- 
tions have  been  made  with  regard  to  the  difficul- 
ties attending  the  acquisition  of  the  Chinese  lan- 
guage. The  following  remarks  of  the  late  Dr. 
Morrison  are  probably  the  most  correct  that  have 
yet  been  penned  on  the  subject. 

'  The  acquisition  of  the  Chinese  language  has 
often  been  represented  as  almost  impracticable ; 
and  sometimes,  on  the  other  hand,  it  has  been 
said  to  be  very  easy.  It  is  of  importance  that 
the  student  should  take  the  middle  path,  where 
indeed  the  truth  lies.  To  know  something  of  the 
Chinese  language  is  a  very  easy  thing;  to  know 
as  much  of  it  as  will  answer  many  useful  and  im- 
portant purposes  is  not  extremely  difficult ;  but  to 
be  master  of  the  Chinese  language,  the  writer 
considers  extremely  difficult.  However,  the  dif- 
ficulty is  not  insuperable.  It  is  a  difficulty,  which, 
(in  the  words  of  Sir  William  Jones,  when  speak- 
ing of  the  Persian  language,)  like  all  others  in 
8 


86  MEMOIR   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

the  world,  will  be  insensibly  surmounted  by  the 
habit  of  industry  and  perseverance,  without  which 
no  great  design  was  ever  accomplished.  The 
student,  therefore,  should  not  undertake  Chinese 
under  the  idea  that  it  is  a  very  easy  thing  to  ac- 
quire ;  nor  should  he  be  discouraged  under  an 
impression  that  the  difficulty  of  acquiring  it  is 
next  to  insurmountable.'" 

Chinese  Religions. 

"  In  China  there  are  three  distinct  and  prevail- 
ing systems  of  religion,  or  philosophy,  namely, 
that  of  CONFUCIUS,  of  FUH,  or  BUDHA,  and  of 
TAOU.  These,  however,  do  not  hold  equal  rank 
in  the  nation,  Confucianism  being  pretty  generally 
held  by  the  higher  classes,  and  to  a  considerable 
extent  might  be  regarded  as  the  state  religion  of 
China.  Kung-footze,  or  Confucius,  as  the  name 
has  been  Latinized  by  the  Roman  Catholic  mis- 
sionaries, flourished  about  580  years  before  Christ, 
and  was  therefore  contemporary  with  the  celebrat- 
ed Pythagoras.  He  was  born  in  the  ancient  and 
independent  state  of  Loo,  which  is  now  compre- 
hended in  the  province  of  Shang-tung.  He  was 
the  son  of  an  eminent  statesman,  and  chief  minis- 
ter of  his  native  country,  and,  being  averse  to  the 
ordinary  amusements  of  youth,  he  early  and 
assiduously  devoted  himself  to  moral  and  political 
science,  without  turning  aside  to  investigate  or 
meddle  with  natural  knowledge,  or  the  prevailing 
superstitions  of  his  countrymen.  He  taught  much 
that  was  proper  to  be  observed,  wielded  a  power- 
ful influence,  and  soon  had  a  train  of  several 
thousand  followers,  many  of  whom  gave  them- 


SKETCHES    OF    CHINA.  87 

selves  up  entirely  to  the  practice  of  their  master's 
precepts.  He  is  styled  '  the  most  holy  teacher 
of  ancient  times,'  and  the  books  he  wrote  and 
compiled  have  been  handed  down  through  succes- 
sive generations,  and  they  at  present  constitute 
the  Holy  Scriptures  of  the  Chinese  empire. 
The  sage  on  one  occasion  remarked,  that  there 
were  three  things  to  beware  of  through  life :  — 
'  When  a  man  is  young,  let  him  beware  of  his 
appetites ;  when  middle-aged,  of  his  passions ; 
and  when  old,  of  covetousness  especially.'  Confu- 
cius was  probably  more  political  in  his  teachings 
than  religious.  However  fine  may  be  many  of 
his  sentiments,  he  makes  no  acknowledgments  of 
an  ever'-blessed  and  Almighty  God ;  and  although, 
for  more  than  two  thousand  years,  he  has  been 
venerated  and  worshipped  throughout  the  empire, 
at  numberless  shrines  and  temples,  dedicated  ex- 
pressly to  his  memory,  his  doctrines,  unaided  by 
divine  revelation,  have  not  been  effectual  in  caus- 
ing his  followers  to  live  lives  of  even  common 
morality.  Pride,  self-righteousness,  blind  incon- 
sistency, shameful  dissoluteness,  lurking  atheism, 
and  a  hungering  and  thirsting  after  unrighteous 
gain,  are  the  prominent  characteristics  of  the 
present  followers  of  the  great  Confucius.  He 
taught  that  a  man  should  not  live  under  the  same 
sun  with  the  murderer  of  his  father,  which  doc- 
trine itself  would  lead  to  murder.  He  died  in 
his  seventy-third  year,  and  only  a  few  days  be- 
fore his  death,  he  restlessly  moved  about,  leaning 
upon  his  staff,  and  with  unhappy  sighs 'exclaimed, 


'  The  mountain  is  crumbling, 
The  strong  beam  is  yielding, 
The  sage  is  withering  like  a  plant ' 


88  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

It  is  said  in  a  native  publication,  that,  besides 
private  shrines,  there  are  in  China  more  than 
one  thousand  five  hundred  temples  dedicated  to 
Confucius  alone.  In  the  same  work,  it  is  estimat- 
ed that  at  the  regular  spring  and  autumnal  sac- 
rifices, offered  to  the  manes  of  this  departed  mor- 
tal, there  are  immolated  annually  upwards  of 
62,000  victims,  besides  the  offering  of  27,000 
pieces  of  beautiful  silk,  of  various  colors.  The 
different  victims  sacrificed  are  enumerated  as 
follows :  — 

Oxen, 6 

Pigs, 27,000 

Deer, 2,800 

Sheep, 5,800 

Rabbits, 27,000 

Total, 62,606 

In  addition  to  the  above,  there  are  national  sac- 
rifices and  offerings  on  the  eighth  month  of  every 
year,  and  Confucius  comes  in  for  no  inconsiderable 
share.  The  sacrificial  festivals  are  celebrated 
in  the  same  month  throughout  the  empire,,  and 
altogether  at  the  national  expense,  in  temples 
dedicated  to  their  respective  deities.  They  are 
as  follows  :  On  the 

4th  of  the  month,  sacrifices  and  offerings  are 

presented  to  Confucius. 
5th,  to  the  god  of  the  winds,  or  JEolus. 
6th,  to  the  god  of  letters,  or  the  Chinese  Mi- 
nerva. 

12th,  to  the  god  of  war,  or  Mars. 
13th,  to  the  god  of  fire. 

14th,  to  the  spirits   of  illustrious  and   faithful 
ministers. 


SKETCHES    OF    CHINA.  89 

15th,  to  the  god  of  the  Southern  Ocean,  or 
Neptune,  who  tranquillizes  the  sea. 

16th,  to  the  queen  of  heaven,  and  king  of 
Dragons. 

28th,  to  the  deified  sages. 

The  religion  of  Fo,  Fun,  or  BUDI.A,  was  intro- 
duced into  China  from  Hindostan,  about  the  year 
65  of  the  Christian  era.  It  was  spread  through 
the  empire  by  means  of  books  and  tracts,  which 
were  zealously  distributed  by  its  deluded  vota- 
ries. It  is  said  that  the  emperor  Ming-te,  of  the 
Han  dynasty,  supposing  a  certain  saying  of  Con- 
fucius to  be  prophetic  of  the  discovery  of  some 
saint  iir  the  west,  despatched  several  messen- 
gers to  seek  him  out.  They  proceeded  to  India, 
and  discovering  the  sect  of  the  Budhists,  pre- 
vailed on  some  of  them  to  accompany  them  back 
to  China,  with  a  supply  of  their  books  and  idols. 
The  disciples  of  Fo  in  China  say  that  he  is  one 
person,  but  that  he  has  three  forms,  and  these 
three  forms  are  separately  represented  by  three 
distinct  gilded  images,  which  they  call  '  the 
three  precious  or  pure  Budhas.'  The  great  ven- 
eration for  elephants,  throughout  Pegu  and  Siam, 
is  said  to  have  been  originated  by  the  circum- 
stance of  the  mother  of  the  god  Budha  having 
dreamed  that  she  swallowed  an  elephant.  The 
five  following  are  the  principal  points  of  the  doc- 
trine of  Budhism,  and  are  addressed  to  the  priests. 
1.  Do  not  kill  any  living  creature.  2.  Do  not 
steal.  3.  Do  not  marry.  4.  Speak  not  falsely. 
5.  Drink  no  wine.  —  Budhist  priests  shave  the 
whole  head,  live  in  monasteries,  and  constitute  a 
society  of  craving  mendicants,  who  live  upon  the 
8* 


90  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

liberality  of  the  idolatrous  populace;  and  the  fata, 
superstition  to  which  they  are  devoted,  has  as- 
sumed the  same  shape  in  China,  as  in  Burmah, 
Siam,  Thibet,  Cochin-China,  Tartary,  and  J:.pan. 
Budhism,  at  present,  is  far  from  beinn;  flourishing 
in  the  Celestial  Empire.  The  Roman  Catholic 
missionaries  to  China  have  been  repeatedly  puz- 
zled at  the  striking  similarity  of  the  ceremonies 
of  Budhism  to  those  of  their  own  system.  The 
Budhist  priests  practise  celibacy,  observe  fastings 
and  prayers  for  the  dead,  have  holy  water,  and 
rosaries  of  beads,  which,  like  the  Catholics,  they 
count  with  prayers.  They  also  worship  relics, 
and  lead  a  monastic  life,  similar  to  that  of  the 
Franciscans. 

The  third  religious  sect  in  China  is  that  of 
TAOU,  so  called  from  its  founder,  who  came  into 
notice  almost  simultaneously  with  Confucius. 
Taou  is  the  Chinese  Epicurus,  and  inculcated  a 
contempt  for  all  riches,  and  honors,  and  worldly 
emoluments.  He  also  taught  that  every  passion 
which  would  in  the  least  interfere  with  personal 
tranquillity  and  self-enjoyment  should  be  strictly 
subdued.  The  priests  of  Taou  style  themselves 
'  Doctors  of  Reason,'  and  also  '  Celestial  Teach- 
ers.' They  are  also  great  pretenders  of  magic 
4  <(P  and  alchemy,  and  endeavor  hard  to  discover  the 
elixir  of  long  life,  or  immortality.  Confucianism 
has  no  priest,  except  the  emperor,  but  the  priests 
of  Budha  and  Taou  are  abundant.  From  the 
above  systems  of  religion  is  excluded  the  glorious 
Deity  as  an  object  of  worship,  and  they  never  al- 
lude to  the  mighty  Ruler  of  all,  but  in  the  ob- 
scurest and  most  unsatisfactory  manner.  Those 
who  have  long  studied  the  subject,  say,  that 


SKETCHES    OF    CHINA.  91 

'  China  is  plunged  by  the  religion  of  the  philoso- 
phers into  pantheism,  or  hidden  atheism.  We 
have  endeavored  to  find  God,  the  eternal  Jehovah, 
the  Almighty,  the  blessed  and  self-existing  God, 
the  Creator  of  the  universe,  but  in  vain  have  we 
sought  among  all  the  philosophy  and  religion 
which  we  have  met  with  in  China.'  Were  the 
brightest  doctrines  of  the  three  religions  combined, 
they  never  would  prepare  their  followers  for  the 
service  of  their  Maker  on  earth,  or  his  presence 
in  the  mansions  of  bliss.  The  present  condition 
of  the  three  hundred  and  sixty  millions  of  China, 
in  a  religious  point  of  view,  is  gloomy  and  repul- 
sive, and  sufficient  to  awaken  the  liveliest  sympa- 
thies of  every  bosom  that  cherishes  a  Christian's 
hope.  The  absurdities  of  the  Chinese  religion- 
ists, and  the  moral  condition  of  China,  at  the 
present  time,  have  been  strikingly  and  correctly 
portrayed  in  a  recent  publication  by  Mr.  Constant, 
of  France.  The  religion  of  Confucianists  '  sup- 
poses the  existence  of  one  only  substance,  without 
attributes,  without  qualities,  without  will,  without 
intelligence.'  The  religion  of  the  Taouists 
•'  knows  of  no  motive  but  blind  fatalism,  and  no 
perfection  but  a  blind  apathy,  without  virtue  and 
without  vice ;  without  pain  and  without  pleasure ; 
without  hope  and  without  fear ;  without  desire  and 
without  dislike ;  and  finally  without  immortality.' 
Voltaire,  among  other  encomiums  equally  gratui- 
tous, has  declared  that '  the  constitution  of  China 
/.-•  ////•  best  in  the  world,'  and  yet  in  this  same 
China  we  find  religion  reduced  to  frivolous  and 
fastidious  ceremonies,  which  only  recall  despised 
and  forgotten  opinions,  etiquette  in  the  place  of 
feeling,  a  lifeless  form  for  a  belief,  signs  without 


92  MEMOIR    OF    MUS.    SHUCK. 

signification,  a  practice  without  a  theory,  irreli- 
gious abstractions  for  the  high,  and  stupid  super- 
stitions for  the  people;  the  worship  of  spirits, 
and  the  most  positive  and  gross  materialism;  for 
the  rest  the  most  grinding  oppressions,  the  in<»t 
absolute  power,  barbarous  punishments,  corruption 
without  limits,  craft  in  the  service  of  fear,  a  com- 
plete absence  of  all  generous  sentiments,  and  an 
apathy  which  yields  only  to  the  love  of  gain,  and 
a  frightful  fixedness,  even  over  the  traits  of  the 
melancholy  and  degraded  human  form.  This  is 
what  we  see  in  China." 


(93) 


CHAPTER    V. 

Macao  — Description  of  it — Extract*  from  Mrs.  Shuck's  Letters,  in 
Chronological  Order — Difficulty  of  her  Landing — Mr.  Shuck's 
Visit  to  Canton  —Chinese  Burial  — Orphan  Boy  — School—  Hopea 
of  Ah  Loo's  Conversion  —  Letter*  from  America  —  Letter  from  Mrs. 
Shuck  to  Susan  —  Affectionate  Exhortation  —  Chinese  New  Year 

—  Baptism  of  Ah  Loo  —  Lord's  Supper  — Chinese  Girl,  Jane  Maria 

—  Mrs.  Shuck  studying  Chinese  with  Mr.  Roberts — Translation 
of  Baptism  —  Visit  to  a  Heathen  Temple  —  Sickness  —  Birth  of  a 
second  Child  —  Friends  in  Macao. 

WE  have  already  stated  that  Mrs.  Shuck 
landed  at  Macao,  in  China.  It  is  thus  described 
by  her  shortly  after  her  arrival  there :  "  Macao 
is  not  an  island,  as  is  generally  thought,  but  a 
peninsula,  connected  with  the  large  island  Heang 
Shan.  It  is  between  three  and  four  miles  long, 
,  and  about  one  mile  and  a  half  wide.  Macao 
belongs  to  the  Chinese,  but  the  Portuguese  are 
permitted  to  have  an  anomalous  government  over 
their  own  countrymen.  There  are  now  settled 
here  about  35,000  pagan  Chinese,  and  between 
3  and  10,000  Portuguese.  It  has  truly  a  delight- 
ful climate  :  and  it  is  romantically  situated,  ninety 
miles  south  of  the  mighty  city  Canton,  with 
which  it  has  daily  communication,  as  well  as 
frequent  intercourse  with  many  other  parts  of 
this  vast  empire.  We  are  now  feasting  ourselves 
on  the  pleasant  winter  season.  And  I  assure 
you,"  (she  was  addressing  her  father,)  "  we  pos- 


94  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

V 

sess  great  enjoyment,  and  much  social  happiness 
around  our  blazing  fires  of  English  coal,  arid 
almost  imagine  ourselves  in  America.  There  is 
a  great  contrast  between  the  climates  of  Macao 
and  Singapore.  There  is  scarcely  ever  uuy 
change  in  the  weather  in  Singapore.  Here  we 
sometimes  have  about  two  or  three  weeks  of 
intensely  cold  weather,  and  then  a  few  days  will 
intervene  of  delightfully  warm  and  pleasant 
weather ;  and  these  variations  continue  through- 
out the  winter  season,  which  lasts  about  four 
months." 

We  shall  proceed  with  the  extracts  from  Mrs. 
Shuck's  letters  in  chronological  order. 

•'MACAO,  Nor.  24,  1836. 
My  own  dearest  Father, 

Without  ever  having  heard  a  word  from  you 
since  the  22d  of  Sept.  1835,  I  again  attempt  to 
relate  for  your  perusal  the  events  which  have 
occurred  with  us  within  the  last  two  or  three 
months.  I  expect  some  time  before  you  receive 
this,  you  will  have  read  with  delight  a  letter  from 
my  dearest  husband,  informing  you  of  the  birth 
of  our  lovely  son.  I  think  he  also  mentioned  his 
intention  of  leaving  Singapore  for  this  place,  as 
soon  as  circumstances  would  permit.  About 
three  weeks  after  my  confinement,  we  embarked 
on  boird  the  Layton,  Capt.  W.,  and,  after  a  pas- 
sage of  nineteen  days,  came  in  sight  of  Macao. 
Mr.  S.  landed  as  soon  as  practicable,  and  became 
acquainted  wfth  the  few  missionaries  now  stationed 
here,  amongst  whom  is  the  Rev.  Mr:  G.  He 
strongly  insisted  on  conducting  us  to  his  house. 
Mr.  S.  was  detained  on  shore  all  night  on  account 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.       95 

of  the  boisterous  weather.  In  the  morning,  how- 
ever, he  arrived  in  a  boat  belonging  to  a  China- 
man, for  the  purpose  of  taking  us  ashore  as  quick- 
ly as  possible.  We  hurried  ourselves,  and,  after 
getting  all  things  ready  for  leaving,  the  China- 
man, seeing  me  and  the  baby's  nurse,  said,  '  O, 
me  no  can't  take  them  two  womens  ashore.  The 
mandarines  (Chinese  magistrates)  make  me  pay 
great  deal  money.'  The  magistrates  will  not 
allow  the  Chinamen  to  land  females,  but  they  do 
not  prohibit  them  from  landing  in  the  ship's  boat ; 
which  I  should  have  done,  but  unfortunately  it 
had  gone  ashore  the  previous  night,  and  could  not 
return  by  reason  of  the  high  wind.  The  China- 
man at  last  agreed  to  take  me  to  another  ship, 
which  was  close  to  the  water's  edge,  and  the 
captain  kindly  sent  me  ashore  in  his  own  boat. 

We  accepted  Mr.  G.'s  kind  and  polite  invita- 
tion. After  remaining  at  his  house  for  several 
days,  Mr.  S.  became  exceedingly  anxious  to  visit 
the  mighty  city,  Canton.  Mr.  and  Mrs.  G.  in- 
sisted that  we  should  not  remove  to  our  own 
house  until  his  return.  Mr.  S.  was  much  pleased 
with  Canton.  He  returned  in  about  ten  days. 
We  very  soon  became  again  quietly  situated  at 
home." 

To  Mrs.  Keeling. 

"  Nov.  29,  1836. 

You  will,  no  doubt,  dear  sister,  wish  to  know 
how  I  am  now  employing  my  time.  I  hope  I  am 
endeavoring  to  make  myself  useful.  Soon  after 
our  arrival  here,  we  took  into  our  family  a  little 
Chinese  boy,  whom  we  feed  and  clothe.  I  imme- 
diately commenced  teaching  him  the  English 


96  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

alphabet,  and  was  both  surprised  and  delighted  to 
find  him  uncommonly  apt.  He  very  soon  became 
perfectly  acquainted  with  his  letters,  and  he  is 
now  spelling,  and  can  write  very  well.  That  a 
child  can  write  well  before  he  can  read,  to  you 
may  appear  odd,  but  it  is  often  the  case  that 
Chinese  children  can  write  very  beautifully,  when 
it  is  almost  impossible  to  teach  them  to  read. 

A  few  days  ago,  as  my  dearest  husband  and 
myself  were  taking  our  usual  walk  in  the  even- 
ing, we  met  with  a  funeral  procession.  We  found 
from  inquiry  that  the  Chinaman  they  were  about 
to  inter  was  very  poor,  having  no  relatives  near 
him,  with  the  exception  of  a  dear  little  son,  who 
was  at  that  time  seated  near  the  dead  body,  weep- 
ing most  piteously.  I  could  not  refrain  from 
shedding  tears  myself,  when  I  saw  this  poor  little 
boy,  though  indeed  a  heathen,  was  possessed  of 
natural  affection.  He  seemed  as  if  his  heart 
would  break  when  the  body  of  his  father  was 
laid  in  the  cold  and  silent  grave.  I  felt  as  if  I 
would  be  willing  to  take  him  to  my  own  home, 
and  share  with  him  my  last  mouthful.  I  a>kr<l 
Mr.  S.  to  see  if  the  men  who  were  with  him 
would  give  him  to  us,  little  thinking  they  would, 
indeed,  consent.  Bat  they  very  willingly  parted 
with  the  child,  and  we  brought  him  home  with 
us.  He  is  now,  I  hope,  ours.  I  feel  the  greatest 
affection  for  these  my  little  pupils.  They  are 
both  studying  the  English  language  with  me, 
and  their  own  with  a  Chinese  teacher.  I  hope, 
and  humbly  pray,  that  as  they  grow  in  years, 
they  may  also  grow  in  the  knowledge  of  that 
adorable  Saviour,  who  died  to  redeem  them. 
Will  you  not,  my  dear  Mrs.  K.,  when  remember- 


EXTRACTS    FROM    HER   LETTERS.  97 

ing,  in  your  private  devotions,  those  intrusted  to 
your  care  and  instruction,  also  think  of  my  poor 
little  heathen  boys  ?  " 

The  Chinese  bury  their  dead  with  many  super- 
stitious ceremonies.  In  allusion,  probably,  to  the 
scene  described  above,  Mrs.  Shuck,  in  her  "  SCENES 
i\  CHINA,"  says,  "  I  witnessed,  not  long  since,  the 
burial  of  a  Chinaman.  The  coffin  was  entirely 
different  from  any  I  had  ever  before  seen.  It 
seemed  nothing  more  than  a  huge  log  of  wood. 
It  is  made  by  splitting  two  logs  of  wood  in  halves, 
hollowing  out  each  portion,  and  nailing  the  four 
pieces  together,  leaving  the  round  sides  out. 
The  form  of  their  tombs  is  precisely  similar  to 
that  of  the  Greek  letter  Omega,  si,  which  cir- 
cumstance, considering  that  the  grave  is  the  end 
of  man's  earthly  career,  and  that  the  Greeks 
used  that  letter  to  signify  termination,  might  be 
regarded  as  a  striking  coincidence.  After  inter- 
ring the  man,  the  Chinese  who  attended  the 
burial,  commenced  beating  loudly  their  gongs, 
and  making  quite  an  unpleasant  noise.  They 
did  not  forget  to  supply  the  deceased  with  provis- 
ions of  various  kinds.  His  son,  walking  around, 
threw  into  his  grave  a  few  cash  and  some  rice. 
After  bowing  down,  and  striking  their  heads 
against  the  ground,  burning  gilt  paper,  and  pla- 
cing colored  strips  of  the  same  material  at  both 
ends  of  the  grave,  to  propitiate  the  attendant 
spirits,  they  all  departed." 

To  her  Father. 

"jAic.  17,1837. 

Doubtless  you  will  be  much  gratified  to  hear 
that  my  li'tle  school  is  increasing.     I  am  greatly 
9 


98  MEMOIR   OP   MRS.    SHTJCK. 

encouraged  in  regard  to  the  little  boys.  They 
seem  anxious  to  learn  to  read  the  English  lan- 
guage, and  make  good  progress.  I  open  my 
school  about  10  o'clock  in  the  morning,  and  close 
at  12.  The  children  are  then  sent  to  a  Chinese 
school,  in  which  they  remain  about  the  same 
length  of  time. 

I  am  pleased  to  say  that  my  dear  husband  and 
I  are  going  on  encouragingly  with  the  language. 
He  goes  ahead  rapidly,  while  I  creep  slowly  on 
behind.  It  is  certainly  a  difficult  language  to 
learn.  But,  in  the  strength  of  the  Lord,  we  both 
hope  to  overcome  the  difficulty.  Indeed,  I  think 
Mr.  Shuck  will  very  soon  be  able  to  speak  and 
read  it  like  a  Chinaman. 

I  am  delighted  to  tell  you  that  Ah  Loo,  (the 
man  mentioned  in  my  first  letter  from  Singapore,) 
who  is  still  with  us,  gives  us  great  reason  to 
believe  him  to  be  a  converted  man.  Ever  since 
he  came  into  our  employ,  which  is  now  about  ten 
months,  he  has  conducted  himself  in  a  most 
Christian-like  manner.  He  would  never  purchase 
any  thing  on  the  Sabbath,  which  is  always  the 
custom  of  the  heathen.  A  few  nights  ago,  Mr. 
S.  was  speaking  to  him  on  the  subject  of  religion, 
and  he  openly  confessed  that  he  loved  the  Sa- 
viour, and  prayed  to  him.  He  said  that  it  had 
been  two  years  since  he  worshipped  idols,  and 
that  he  had  been  reading  Christian  books  three 
or  four  years.  I  humbly  hope  he  may  not  be 
deceived.  May  the  work  of  grace  already  begun 
in  his  heart  be  continued  !  " 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.       99 

To  Mrs.  Hall. 

"JAW.  23,  1837. 

With  the  greatest  pleasure  imaginable  do  I 
seat  myself  for  the  purpose  of  replying  to  your 
affectionate  letter,  now  before  me,  bearing  date 
Feb.  1836.  This  is  the  first  letter  I  have  received 
from  you  since  I  left  the  shores  of  my  native 
land.  On  the  evening  of  the  21st,  as  my  dearest 
companion  had  just  left  me  to  take  his  accus- 
tomed walk,  I  was  all  alone,  sitting  at  the  fire- 
side, when  I  heard  a  rap  at  the  door.  One  of 
my  little  Chinese  boys,  hearing  the  knock,  ran  to 
open  the  door.  A  Chinaman  entered,  having  in 
his  hands  a  large  bundle,  which  he  laid  on  the 
table, '  saying,  '  This  is  for  Mr.  Shuck.'  My 
curiosity  was  not  enough  excited  at  first  to  see 
what  the  bundle  contained,  and  it  lay  for  some 
time  just  where  the  man  left  it.  However,  as 
Mr.  S.  was  absent  rather  longer  than  usual,  I 
concluded  I  would  open  it.  And  what  was  my 
joy  and  surprisje  when  I  found  it  was  a  package 
of  letters  and  Heralds  for  us,  from  our  dear  dis- 
tant friends !  I  assure  you,  my  dear  mother,  that 
I  was  completely  overpowered  with  joy.  Your 
letter  was  the  first  opened,  and  whilst  reading  it, 
such  was  my  heart-felt  joy,  that  I  could  not  refrain 
from  shedding  tears.  The  dear  little  Chinese 
children,  seeing  me  weep,  thought  of  course  that 
the  letter  I  was  perusing  contained  something 
unpleasant,  which  made  them  sad.  They  would 
not  leave  my  side,  and  appeared  ever)  moment 
as  if  they  would  burst  into  tears.  I  was  too 
much  overcome  to  explain  to  them  the  cause  of 
my  weeping.  The  old  woman  too,  who  nurses 
my  dear  little  Lewis  Hall,  was  affected  to  tears, 


100  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

and  brought  the  child  to  me,  saying, '  Kiss  mamma ! 
Poor  mamma ! '  Our  man,  to  whom  we  are  strong- 
ly attached,  also  came  to  know  the  cause  of  my 
apparent  distress,  and,  seeing  me  standing,  brought 
a  chair  for  me  to  sit  in.  Though  he  said  not  a 
word,  I  could  plainly  perceive  that  he,  with  all 
the  rest,  sincerely  sympathized  with  me.  I  men- 
tion these  circumstances  that  you  may  see  that 
affection  dwells  in  the  hearts  of  blinded  heathen 
as  well  as  in  those  of  others.  I  feel  doubly 
attached  to  each  one  of  our  little  group.  My 
dear  husband  soon  came  in,  and  explained  to 
them  all  they  wished  to  hear." 

To  account  for  the  intensity  of  Mrs.  Shuck's 
emotions,  it  should  be  known,  as  indeed  it  has 
been  already  intimated,  that  she  had  been  long 
and  anxiously  expecting  letters  from  her  friends 
in  America.  Vessel  after  vessel  had  arrived, 
bringing  letters  to  the  other  missionaries,  but 
none  to  her  or  her  husband.  '  Hope  deferred ' 
had  made  her  heart  sick.  At  length,  nearly  a 
year  from  the  time  they  were  dated,  the  letters 
came  suddenly  to  hand  —  the  first  she  had  received 
from  home.  No  wonder  that  her  feelings  were 
overpowering,  and  sought  vent  in  tears. 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"jAir.  23,  1836. 

Your  truly  kind  and  affectionate  letter  calls 
for  an  answer  from  your  fond  sister  Henrietta. 
I  had  long  been  anxiously  wishing  for  the  time 
to  arrive,  when  I  should  be  permitted  to  read  an 
epistle  written  by  the  hand  of  her,  to  whom  I  am 
united  by  the  strong  and  endearing  ties  of  sis- 
terly love.  At  last  the  long-desired  and  greatly- 


EXTRACTS    FROM    HER    LETTERS.  101 

wished-for  letter  has  come  to  hand,  and  with 
much  heart-felt  satisfaction  have  I  perused  it. 
Your  image,  my  dear  Susan,  is  often  before  my 
mind's  eye.  Never  do  I  allow  a  single  day  to 
glide  away  without  thinking  much  of  that  loved 
circle,  of  which  I  once  formed  a  part.  And  fre- 
quently too  do  I  absent  myself  from  the  presence 
of  all  but  the  ever-searching  eye  of  God,  and 
withdrawing  my  mind  from  all  sublunary  con- 
cerns, do  I  pour  forth  my  supplications  on  behalf 
of  that  little  group,  to  which  I  hope  again  to  be 
united  in  realms  of  never-ending  happiness. 

You  say  in  your  letter  you  were  greatly  dis- 
tressed at  the  time  of  our  final  separation  on 
earth,  although  you  did  not  appear  to  be  so.  I 
know  full  well,  my  affectionate  Susan,  what  your 
feelings  were,  for  I  have  experienced  the  same. 
You  go  on  to  say,  '  I  cannot  believe  we  are  sep- 
arated forever.'  Nor  can  I.  Did  I  think  that 
the  many,  and,  I  trust,  earnest  petitions,  which 
have  been  offered  up  by  your  brother  and  myself 
even  since  we  last  saw  you,  that  you  might  be 
truly  converted,  were  to  be  lost,  I  should  think 
that  praying  is  almost  in  vain.  But,  dearest 
Susan,  on  the  contrary,  I  do  cherish  the  soul- 
cheering  expectation  that  we  shall  spend  together 
a  happy  eternity.  You  have  been  long  thinking 
on  the  subject  of  religion,  sufficiently  long  to 
have  come  to  some  decided  point.  I  hope  that 
the  next  communication  from  you  will  contain 
the  pleasing  intelligence  that  you  have  come  out 
from  the  world,  and  publicly  declared  yourself  to 
be  on  the  Lord's  side.  Since  I  parted  from  you, 
I  have  written  many  letters,  both  to  you  and  my 
dear  little  Isabella,  on  the  subject  of  religion. 


* 

102  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.   SHUCK. 

t~  "^ 

But  I  will  here  ask  if  she  does  not  feel  a  desire 
to  obtain  an  interest  in  the  blood  of  the  Saviour. 
Does  she  not  feel  herself  to  be  a  great  sinner  in 
the  sight  of  a  holy  and  just  Being  1  And  will 
she  not  flee  to  the  outstretched  arms  of  Him  who 
hath  said,  '  Suffer  little  children  to  come  unto 
me '  ?  Isabella  has  been  more  than  once  on  the 
point  of  dying.  Just  about  this  time,  two  years 
ago,  she  was  so  severely  burned  that  many 
believed  her  to  be  very  near  the  grave.  But  the 
Lord,  in  his  wisdom  and  loving-kindness,  saw  fit 
to  spare  her.  Will  she  not  now  be  entreated  by 
one,  who,  though  far  distant,  still  loves  her,  and 
feels  an  anxious  solicitude  for  her  future  welfare, 
to  devote  her  days  to  the  service  of  the  King  of 
kings  ?  I  shall  continue  to  bring  your  cases 
before  Him  who  has  said,  '  Ask,  and  ye  shall 
receive.' " 

To  her  Fatter. 

«  JAN.  27, 1837. 

In  a  few  days  from  this  time  the  Chinese 
new  year  will  commence.  Precisely  at  the 
beginning  of  the  New  Year's  Day,  they  bathe 
their  bodies  in  perfumed  water,  dress  in  their 
nicest  clothes,  and,  remaining  at  home,  worship 
their  household  gods,  and  fire  off  crackers. 
After  they  have  concluded  family  worship,  they 
go  to  worship  the  gods  at  the  temples.  All  mer- 
cantile business  is  stopped  for  eight  or  ten  days, 
during  which  time  visits  of  rejoicing  are  made  to 
their  friends  and  relations,  that  are  all  returned ; 
and  they  invite  each  other  to  indulge  in  the  joy 
of  the  Chuntseu  —  '  the  wine  of  spring.'  From 
the  '  Yuetan,'  or  New  Year's  Day,  to  the  fifteenth 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      103 

of  the  month,  they  choose  lucky  days  to  suspend 
flower  lanterns  on  the  houses  and  temples. 
Those  days  are  lucky,  they  consider,  when  the 
wind  blows  from  the  north,  west,  east-north,  or 
north-east.  I  expect  the  place  will  be  quite  in 
an  uproar,  and  we  shall  have  nothing  but  noise 
and  bustle  for  a  number  of  days." 

To  Mrs.  Keeling. 

"  FEB.  2,  1837. 

I  rejoice  greatly,  my  dear  Mrs.  Keeling,  to 
inform  you  that  only  a  few  nights  since,  my  hus- 
band had  the  unspeakable  privilege  of  burying 
with  Christ  in  baptism  a  willing  convert  from 
idolatry.  He  is  a  Chinaman,  and  is  named  Ah 
Loo.  He  has  been  living  in  our  family  for  the 
space  of  eleven  months,  during  which  time  he 
has  conducted  himself  in  a  most  Christian-like 
manner.  I  assure  you  that  our  joy  at  this  delight- 
ful event  cannot  be  described.  We  feel  that  this 
of  itself  is  worth  all  the  toils,  pains,  and  sacri- 
fices we  have  borne." 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"  MARCH  22,  1837. 

I  have  no  fears  that  pa'  will  neglect  the  edu- 
cation of  his  girls,  for  I  know  well  his  views  on 
that  subject.  I  am  sure  he  will  put  you  in  some 
good  school  as  soon  as  he  can.  Only  let  rne  say 
to  you,  my  dear  sisters,  do  your  part —  be  studious 
—  let  every  passing  moment  find  you  acquiring 
something  useful  and  important.  Do,  not  as  I 
have  done,  but  as  I  now  tell  you.  Much  of  my 
precious  time  has  been  thrown  away.  I  sincerely 
repent,  and  feel  ashamed  of  myself,  when  I 


104  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

remember  how  much  money  my  dearest  father 
spent  on  my  education  ;  and  where  is  the  knowl- 
edge which  I  should  have  gained  ?  Susan  and 
Isabella,  follow  not  the  example  I  have  set  you. 
It  was  a  bad  one. 

You  say  in  your  letter,  '  Dear  sister,  I  am 
afraid  that  climate  will  not  agree  with  your 
health ;  but  if  it  does  not,  I  hope  you  will  return 
with  your  husband  to  America.'  Really,  when  I 
read  this  sentence  I  could  but  srnile.  The  cli- 
mate, it  is  true,  is  not  so  salubrious  as  the  one  to 
which  in  former  years  I  was  accustomed  ;  but  my 
health  does  not  seem  quite  so  important  to  me  as 
it  does  to  you.  True  enough,  without  health  I 
shall  be  of  little  use  to  the  Chinese ;  but,  I  trust 
in  the  Lord,  it  will  never  be  so  bad  as  to  compel 
me  to  forsake  them  entirely.  As  yet  I  have  been 
as  well  as  when  in  America.  I  have  not  had 
bilious  fevers,  croups,  headaches,  dtc.,  since  I  left 
you  all.  And,  so  far  as  I  can  judge,  from  present 
circumstances,  I  shall  never  '  return  to  America.' 
It  is  not  my  wish,  dearest  Susan.  The  souls  of 
the  heathen  are  dear  to  my  heart,  and  for  their 
salvation  I  am  willing  to  relinquish  the  comforts 
of  my  dear  home,  the  privileges  I  once  enjoyed, 
and  health  too,  if  it  is  the  Lord's  will.  I  think,  if 
you  will  reverse  your  wish  that  I  should  return, 
and  think  of  giving  yourself  to  the  heathen,  after 
having  first  given  your  heart  to  the  Saviour,  it 
would  be  much  better  for  all  parties." 

To  Mrs.  K.  and  Mrs.  S. 

"  MAT  7,  1837. 

On  last  Lord's  day  Mr.  Shuck  administered 
the  Lord's  supper.  It  was  a  delightful  time 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      105 

Frequently  have  I  partook  of  these  emblems  of 
the  broken  body  and  shed  blood  of  our  adored 
Redeemer,  but  never  before  under  such  circum- 
stances. Far  away  in  a  heathen  land,  where  all 
around  is  wrapped  in  profound  gloominess,  and 
with  a  converged  Chinese.  This  was  a  privilege 
—  a  privileged  which  many  are  destitute.  May 
we  improve  the  numerous  blessings  we  enjoy,  and 
finally,  with  all  our  dear  Christian  friends,  meet 
above  to  praise  forever  our  blest  Redeemer. 

My  dear  friends,  I  have  now  something  to  com- 
municate, in  which,  I  trust,  you  will  be  greatly  in- 
terested. I  have  recently  met  with  a  poor  little 
Chinese  girl,  about  six  years  old,  whom  we  have 
adopted  as  our  own  child.  Her  case  is  peculiarly 
interesting.  Her  mother,  imitating  the  example  of 
other  heathen  mothers,  sold  her  to  a  Chinaman, 
who  kept  her  only  a  few  months,  and  sold  her 
again  to  another  Chinaman  and  his  wife,  whose 
hearts,  if  they  were  in  possession  of  such  a  thing, 
would  not  allow  them  to  bestow  on  her  a  single 
act  of  kindness.  They  used  her  cruelly,  and 
made  her  perform  such  labor  as  could  be  expected 
only  from  older  and  stronger  persons.  And  it 
seems  that  these  cruel  people,  not  satisfied  with 
this,  even  denied  her  necessary  food.  By  chance 
an  American,  on  the  eve  of  leaving  this  place  for 
his  native  land,  saw  her,  and  feeling  anxious  to 
rescue  the  dear  child  from  death,  —  for  she  was 
indeed  on  the  shore  of  another  world,  —  offered  to 
buy  her.  Fortunately  the  Chinaman  consented, 
and  received  for  her  the  sum  often  dollars.  The 
gentleman  did  not  wish  to  take  the  child  home, 
and  hearing  that  I  was  anxious  for  a  little  Chi- 
nese girl,  presented  her  to  me.  She  is  now  liv- 


106  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

ing  in  our  family,  and  is  standing  by  my  side  at 
this  very  moment.  Her  name  is  Jaue  Maria, 
after  yourselves.  Mrs.  Wade  in  her  letters  re- 
marks that  '  the  naming  of  a  heathen  child  is 
merely  nominal,  as  we  never  call  them  by  their 
English  names,  nor  do  they  even  know  that  they 
have  received  such  names.'  Whatever  may  be  the 
difficulties  which  present  themselves  to  the  nam- 
ing of  children  in  Burmah,  I  have  found  nothing 
more  easy  in  China.  This  little  girl  knows  her- 
self by  no  other  name  than  the  one  we  have  given 
her,  and  no  one  else  does.  She  always  answers 
when  I  call  for  Jane  Maria,  and  I  am  certain  she 
will  never  have  any  other  name.  I  most  affec- 
tionately commend  her  to  your  patronage." 

To  Mn.  Hdl. 

«JUKE  13,  1837. 

Brother  Roberts  is  living  with  us.  He  is 
an  active  and  godly  Christian.  We  study  Chi- 
nese together.  We  are  reading  a  native  Chinese 
book,  called,  by  them,  San-tsze  king,  meaning 
Three  character  classic.  We  study  about  four 
hours  each  day.  1  feel  greatly  encouraged  in  re- 
gard to  my  progress  in  the  language.  Mr.  S., 
like  the  hare,  runs  on  a  great  way  before  me.  He 
studies  very  intensely,  and  is  exceedingly  anxious 
to  translate  the  Scriptures  into  Chinese.  In  the 
Bible,  and  other  books  translated  into  Chinese  by 
the  Pedobaptist  missionaries,  baptism  is  repre- 
sented as  meaning  any  thing  else  but  the  total 
immersion  of  a  believer  in  the  name  of  the  Lord 
Jesus.  In  the  latest  edition  of  the  Chinese  New 
Testament,  for  baptism  is  put  Se  le,  meaning 
'  the  washing  ceremony.'  I  would  not  have  you 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      107 

think  that  I,  or  any  of  the  rest  of  us,  say  that  the 
Pedobaptists  have  not  done  their  duty,  as  to  giv- 
ing many  other  parts  of  the  word  of  God  correct- 
ly to  the  heathen.  It  is  only  on  one  point  —  bap- 
tism—  that  they  fail.  This  you  will,  doubtless, 
agree  with  me  should  be  represented  as  some- 
thing more  than  a  '  washing  ceremony.'  " 

To  her  Father  and  his  Family. 

"  JULY  1,  1837. 

Very  frequently  Mr.  Shuck  and  I  take  a  walk 
to  the  neighboring  villages,  where  we  see  tem- 
ples of  the  heathen,  dedicated  to  their  idols. 
The  last  time  we  were  at  one  of  these  temples, 
we  saw  a  young  lad  worshipping.  I  went  up  to 
him,  and  listened  to  what  he  was  saying,  but 
could  only  hear  distinctly  a  few  words.  He  was 
standing  at  a  table  before  a  large  image,  having 
in  his  hands  a  stick,  with  which  he  continued,  for 
some  time,  striking  on  two  round  pieces  of  wood, 
that  were  lying  on  the  table,  chanting  all  the 
while.  I  took  from  my  bag  a  Christian  book  in 
Chinese,  and  offered  it  to  him.  He,  however,  only 
glanced  at  me,  and  went  on  with  his  idolatry. 
I  soon  left  him,  and  went  with  Mr.  S.  into  some 
other  parts  of  the  temple.  After  a  short  time,  the 
lad  came  where  I  was,  and  said,  '  You  offered 
me  a  book  just  now.  I  will  take  it  now,  if  you 
will  give  it  to  me.'  I  gladly  gave  him  the  book, 
humbly  hoping  that  some  good  might  result  from 
his  perusing  it.  In  return  for  what  I  had  given 
him,  he  said  he  wished  to  give  me  something,  and 
asked  me  if  I  could  read  Chinese.  I  told  him  I 
could,  a  little.  He  immediately  ran  off,  and  soon 
came  back  with  a  book,  and  desired  me  to  accept 


108  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

it  I  read  one  page  to  him ;  as  it  was  the  book 
that  I  was  then  studying,  I  read  it  pretty  correctly, 
which  quite  pleased  the  boy." 

To  her  Father. 

"DEC.  16,1837. 

Your  affectionate  letter  of  June  27  reached 
us  about  five  weeks  ago.  It  was,  as  indeed  are 
all  your  letters,  read  with  feelings  of  peculiar  in- 
terest and  delight.  How  does  it  gladden  my 
heart  to  hear  from  my  endeared  pa',  to  read  letters 
written  by  his  own  dear  hand,  and  to  perceive  by 
them  that  he  is  laboring  for  the  Lord,  and  de- 
lights to  labor !  I  should  long  ere  this  have  an- 
swered yours,  and  other  communications  received 
at  the  same  time,  but  for  sickness  in  our  family. 
My  beloved  husband  has  been  very  sick,  with  a 
dangerous  disease,  (dysentery,)  for  about  nine 
weeks.  My  sweet  little  Lewis  had  something  of 
the  same,  though  in  a  much  milder  form.  And 
in  the  midst  of  all,  my  confinement  took  place. 
But  the  Lord  was  good.  In  a  few  days  after- 
wards I  was  well,  and  able  to  attend  on  my  affec- 
tionate husband,  which  I  esteemed  a  privilege  as 
well  as  a  duty.  During  Mr.  S.'s  sickness  we  re- 
ceived letters  from  brother  Davenport,  informing 
us  that  our  dear  brother  Reed  was  no  more,  and 
that  his  mortal  disease  was  dysentery.  Imagine 
my  feelings,  dearest  pa',  when  I  beheld  my  own 
Lewis  looking  so  pale  and  ghastly,  and  fearing 
that  I  too,  as  is  poor  sister  Reed,  might  soon  be 
left  a  widow,  in  a  strange  land.  I  could  scarcely 
believe  that  he  would  ever  recover,  for  when  once 
in  this  climate  the  dysentery  attacks,  it  is  seldom 
cured.  However,  my  prayers  were  heard  :  the 


EXTRACTS    FROM    HER    LETTERS.  109 

Lord  in  mercy  restored  my  beloved  companion ; 
and,  I  trust,  we  shall  yet  see  many  happy  days 
together,  laboring  in  the  Lord's  vineyard. 

Be  assured  that  we  are  all  happy  in  our  work, 
and  do  not  regret  having,  in  all  probability,  left 
forever,  in  this  world,  our  dearest  friends.  We 
often  think  of  your  dear  family,  and  we  could  not 
forget,  even  were  we  to  try,  the  precious  days  we 
have  spent  together. 

'  How  can  we  e'er  forget  those  hours 

Of  social  bliss  and  joy  ? 
No  apace  can  their  remembrance  hush, 
Nor  time  their  sweets  destroy.' " 

To  her  Step-Mother. 

«  DEC.  28,  1837. 

You  will  doubtless  rejoice  with  me,  dear 
ma',  at  the  birth  of  my  lovely  and  second  son, 
named  Ryland  Keeling.  His  birth  took  place  on 
the  29th  of  Oct.  The  day  previous  was  my  birth- 
day. I  was  just  twenty  years  of  age.  The  Lord 
has  indeed  been  merciful  to  me.  My  dear 
mother,  if  any  one  on  earth  should  devote  herself 
entirely  to  the  service  of  the  Lord,  it  is  myself, 
for  I  have  received  many,  very  many  mercies 
from  his  hands.  May  I  never  forget  whence  these 
blessings  come,  and  ever  possess  a  growing  inter- 
est in  the  work  of  ray  heavenly  Father ! 

Sometimes,  when  contemplating  past  scenes, 
enjoyed  with  dear  friends  in  old  Virginia,  and 
knowing  that  they  are  to  return  no  more,  the  tear 
starts,  and  my  heart  seems  too  full  to  refrain  from 
weeping.  I  would  not  have  you  think,  however, 
that  I  ever  feel  unhappy,  or  that  I  have  one  wish 
to  return  to  them.  No,  fir  from  it.  In  some 
10 


110  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHOCK. 

part  of  this  heathen  land,  let  me  live,  let  me 
labor,  and,  in  the  midst  of  the  heathen,  may  I, 
if  consistent  with  the  will  of  Heaven,  breathe  my 
Jatest  breath. 

Though  very  far  distant  from  my  native  land, 
and  loved  connections,  I  have  here  found  friends 
who  are  as  kind  as  those  I  left  behind.  I  am  sure 
it  will  give  joy  to  my  dear  father,  mother,  brothers, 
and  sisters,  when  I  tell  them  of  the  repeated  acts 
of  kindness  that  I  have  met  with  from  certain  in- 
dividuals in  this  place."  Here  Mrs.  S.  records 
her  grateful  acknowledgments  of  the  kind  and 
faithful  attentions  of  Dr.  C.  and  his  amiable  lady, 
and  the  generous  beneficence  of  Mr.  and  Mrs.  K. 
and  of  Mrs.  E.  How  cheering  and  refreshing 
are  these  instances  of  kindness  from  strangers  in 
a  strange  land !  They  are  lovely  and  profitable 
exhibitions  of  human  character,  worthy  of  an  en- 
during memorial.  "  Whosoever  shall  give  to 
drink  unto  one  of  these  little  ones,"  said  incarnate 
Goodness,  "  a  cup  of  cold  water  only  in  the  name 
of  a  disciple,  verily,  I  say  unto  you,  he  shall  in 
no  wise  lose  his  reward  " 


(Ill) 


CHAPTER    VI. 


1838 — Remarks  —  Correspondence  of  Mrs.  Shuck  continued  —  Blmd 
Girl  —  Filial  Devotion  of  Mrs.  a—  Ah  Loo's  Visit  to  his  Friend* 
—  Goes  to  Bankok  with  Mr.  Dean  —  Death  of  Lucius  —  Consola- 
tory Letter  to  Mrs.  Hall  —  Death  of  Mrs.  Jones — Revivals  in  Ameri- 
ca—  Susan's  Conversion — Mrs.  Shuck's  Advice  to  her — Fall  of 
Ah  Loo — Exhortation  to  Isabella — Climate  of  Macao — Severe 
Illness  of  Mrs.  Shuck — II  r  Feelings  —  Thoughts  of  sending  her 
Children  Home —  Robbers  cause  the  Death  of  a  Chinaman  —  Ricb 
Orphan  —  Class  under  Instruction  —  Remarks  by  the  Compiler  on 
the  Education  of  the  Children  of  Missionaries. 


ANOTHER  year  (1838)  has  commenced.  Mrs. 
Shuck  is  still  at  Macao,  and  still  endeavoring  to 
perform,  with  fidelity  and  diligence,  the  duties  of 
her  humble,  but  not  unimportant  station.  From 
the  ample  materials  furnished  by  her  correspond- 
ence, let  us  pursue  the  narrative  of  her  trials, 
anxieties,  and  vicissitudes,  and  record  her  obser- 
vations on  the  scenes  and  events  which  she  wit- 
nessed. 

•  "  January  10.  Hearing  a  loud  talking  beneath 
the  window  to-day,  I  went  to  ascertain  who  were 
talking.  Several  Chinese  females,  and  an  old 
man,  with  a  poor  little  blind  girl,  were  standing 
outside.  As  soon  as  they  saw  me,  they  all  cried 
out,  with  one  accord,  to  know  if  I  would  not  like 
to  purchase  the  little  girl  whom  they  had  brought. 
They  seemed  exceedingly  anxious  to  get  rid  of 
the  child,  and  continued  calling  to  me  '  She  is 


112  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

blind,'  they  said,  '  and  only  six  years  of  age.  Do 
you  not  wish  to  buy  her  ? '  The  price  they  had 
set  upon  this  poor  little  object  of  pity  was  ten  dol- 
lars. I  spoke  but  little  on  the  subject  —  told  them 
I  did  not  design  purchasing  their  child ;  and 
walked  away  with  some  such  reflections  as  these : 
What  a  vast  and  deeply  affecting  contrast  between 
the  children  of  Chinese  parents,  and  those  whose 
privilege  it  is  to  dwell  in  lands  where  Christianity 
triumphs!  In  the  one,  we  see  them  tenderly 
nurtured  in  the  lap  of  maternal  love.  When 
disease  seizes  them,  how  intense  the  solicitude 
of  the  mother  !  She  watches  by  their  bed-side 
without  one  wish  to  leave ;  but  if  compelled,  for 
a  moment,  to  do  so,  how  eager  is  she  to  return  ! 
But,  on  the  other  hand,  how  differently  are  the 
children*  of  the  Chinese  mother  reared  !  The 
disease  and  misery  to  which  they  are  born  are 
indescribable.  When  ill,  they  have  no  endearing 
mother,  whose  delight  it  is  to  attend  to  their  wants. 
They  become  ill,  they  suffer,  they  die,  uncared 
for  and  unthought  of.  If  they  should  happen  to 
be  blind  or  lame,  or  disabled  from  work,  how  joy- 
fully will  those,  whose  duty  it  is  to  befriend  and 
support  them,  part  from  them  forever,  for  the  sake 
of  gaining  a.  few  dollars!  With  what  pity  should 
the  happy  citizens  of  America  look  upon  the  un- 
taught millions  of  China!  How  frequently  and 
fervently  should  they  pray  that  the  Chinese  may 
be  guided  by  that  light  which  will  lead  the  hus- 
band to  gaze  on  his  wife  as  indeed  a  companion 
of  his  bosom,  and  not  a  slave,  and  the  mother  to 
look  on  her  sons  and  daughters  as  blessings  from 
on  high,  and  so  to  train  them  as  to  lit  them  for 
the  skies ! " 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      113 

To  her  Father. 

»  MARCH  22,  1838. 

What  can  afford  me  greater  satisfaction  than 
to  write  to  my  beloved  and  distant  father  t 
Him,  who  watched  so  parent-like  and  tenderly 
over  me  during  my  years  of  childhood,  who  de- 
lighted to  see  me  delighted  and  contented,  and 
who  would,  at  all  times,  take  pleasure  in  confer- 
ring on  me  such'  favors  as  might  amuse  me  in 
my  '  childish  glee.'  Dearest  pa',  the  tears  steal 
rapidly  down  my  cheeks,  nor  will  I  check  them. 
It  affords  me  a  pleasure  to  think  of  those  happy 
days,  and  weep.  But  still  there  are  other  days 
and  other  years  equally  dear.  Yes,  when  my 
childish  hours  had  passed,  and  I  had  arrived  at  an 
age  when  I  most  needed  a  father,  a  friend,  a  coun- 
sellor, protector,  it  was  then  I  felt  your  worth ; 
and  I  well  knew  of  whom  to  seek  advice,  and  on 
whose  advice  and  guidance  I  might  well  depend.  I 
considered  you  next  to  my  heavenly  Parent.  Was 
I  not  right  for  so  doing  ?  Who  on  earth  took  such 
intense  interest  in  all  my  concerns  as  my  father? 
What,  I  again  ask,  can  afford  me  more  pleasure, 
now  that  I  can  no  longer  hold  converse  with  you 
orally,  than  to  do  so  in  the  present  form?  The 
Lord,  in  his  infinite  wisdom,  has  seen  it  right  to 
separate  me  from  that  father,  that  tender  father, 
whom  I  love  to  remember,  but  he  has  not  left  me 
without  a  friend.  He  has  blessed  me  with  a  de- 
voted companion ;  one,  too,  who  well  supplies  the 
place  of  my  dear  pa'.  He  is  happy  if  he  sees 
me  happy,  and  troubled  if  he  sees  me  troubled. 
How  truly  kind  has  my  heavenly  Father  been  to 
me !  May  I  ever  serve  him  with  a  devoted  spirit, 
and  never  may  I  forget  for  a  moment  the  hand 
10* 


114  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

that  supplies  me  with  the  blessings  and  comforts 
of  life. 

I  dare  say  you  will  be  pleased  to  hear  that  the 
devoted  Ah  Loo  has  returned.  We  delivered 
your  message  to  him,  and  he  threw  down  his 
head,  as  if  to  hide  the  tear  which  glistened  in  his 
eye,  indicating  that  he  felt  humbled  that  Chris- 
tians in  America  should  feel  interested  in  him. 
He  says,  during  the  time  he  has  been  in  his  own 
country,  and  amongst  his  own  friends,  that  he 
has  spent  much  time  in  talking  to  the  people 
about  Jesus,  the  Jesus  whom  he  loves  and  serves ; 
also  that  there  are  fifteen  or  twenty  persons  who 
seemed  greatly  interested  in  his  recitals,  so  much 
so  that  they  said,  if  they  had  only  money  enough 
to  pay  their  passage  to  Macao,  they  would  come 
to  see  Mr.  Shuck,  and  hear  more  about  this  Jesus. 
Were  it  practicable,  both  Mr.  S.  and  myself  would 
at  once  take  up  our  journey,  and  visit  these  peo- 
ple ;  but  in  the  present  state  of  things  it  would 
not  be  at  all  advisable." 

Rev.  Mr.  Deane,  of  Bankok,  having  visited  Ma- 
cao for  his  health,  and  spent  some  time  in  the 
family  of  Mr.  Shuck,  was  about  to  return  to  his 
field  of  labor.  This  statement  will  explain  the 
ensuing  extract. 

To  her  Father. 

"APRIL  4,  1838. 

Brother  Deane  has  been  studying  the  Tea 
Chew  dialect,  which  is  Ah  Loo's  native  tongue. 
There  is  a  great  number  of  Tea  Chew  people  in 
Bankok,  and  brother  Deane  proposed  to  us  to  let 
Ah  Loo  go  with  him,  as  he  felt  quite  sure  that  he 
could  be  more  useful  there  than  in  Macao.  You 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      115 

will  be  surprised,  I  dare  say,  to  hear  that  both. 
Mr.  S.  and  myself  gave  our  consent.  Nothing 
could  have  induced  us  to  do  so,  but  the  hope  of 
his  benefiting  the  Chinese  in  Bankok.  He  is 
gone  on  an  errand  of  mercy.  May  the  best  of 
Heaven's  blessings  attend  him  !  It  is  likely  he 
will  join  us  again  at  some  future  day ;  but  we  do 
not  wish  ever  again  to  employ  him  as  a  servant. 
We  wish  him  to  be  the  servant  of  Christ,  and  to 
see  him  go  from  place  to  place,  publishing  to  the 
dying  Chinese  the  gospel  of  peace. 

Would  that  I  could  now  tell  you,  my  dear  pa', 
of  some  others  who  are  treading  in  the  footsteps 
of  Ah  ,Loo ;  but,  alas !  alas !  the  Chinese  seem 
mad  in  their  idolatry.  What  a  mighty  work  lies 
before  us !  How  much  to  do !  How  few  to  do 
it !  Were  we  to  depend  (merely)  on  our  efforts, 
how  surely  should  we  fail !  But,  no,  blessed  be 
the  Lord,  we  have  a  high,  holy,  and  eternal  God, 
to  whom  we  may  look.  On  his  promises,  gra- 
cious as  they  are,  we  depend.  We  can  be  strong, 
if  he  strengthens  us.  Then  we  will,  and  we  do, 
hope  for  better  things ;  though,  at  present,  gloom 
hangs  over  all  the  prospects  of  China's  speedy 
redemption." 

To  Mrs.  Hall,  her  Step-Mother. 

"JcjiE  4,  1838. 

And  now,  my  dear,  deeply  afflicted  ma',  I 
must,  before  I  proceed  any  farther  with  my  letter, 
recur  to  the  painful  subject  alluded  to  in  your 
letter,  the  death  of  my  sweet,  interesting  little 
brother,  and  your  darling  son.  And  is  it  true? 
Is  my  precious  little  Lucius  no  more  ?  Am  I  to 
behold  his  face  no  more  on  earth  ?  I  assure  you, 


116  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

my  dear  ma',  I  feel,  and  deeply  feel  too,  though  I 
had  not  seen  him  for  years,  and  hardly  expected 
ever  to  behold  him  in  this  world  again.  I  rejoice, 
however,  that  he  is  taken  from  this  poor  un- 
friendly world,  ere  he  had  received  any  injury 
from  living  in  it.  He  can  never  sin  now.  No, 
sainted  little  one,  sleep  in  Jesus,  till  the  morning 
of  the  resurrection ;  then  your  dear  mother,  now 
in  tears,  and  your  poor  unworthy  '  sis.  Net.,'  will 
shake  hands  with  you  in  heaven.  Happy,  happy 
meeting  !  No  death  can  enter  that  blessed  abode, 
and  tear  from  our  fond  embraces  some  object  of 
love.  Do  not  grieve,  dear  ma'.  Think  of  the 
perfect,  unfading  happiness  of  your  loved  Lucius. 
Our  heavenly  Father  has  done  it  all  for  the  best. 
I  know  it  must  have  been  hard,  very  hard,  to  part 
with  him.  His  conversations  to  you,  of  which 
you  inform  me,  are  truly  interesting.  Young  as 
he  was,  when  last  I  saw  him,  he  was  an  uncom- 
monly interesting  child,  and  I  felt,  as  Susan  says 
in  her  letter,  '  He  was  to  us  a  season  given.'  I 
did  not  think  he  would  live  many  years.  But 
let  us  think  how  much  more  lovely  he  is  note 
than  when  on  earth  —  clothed  in  robes  of  spotless 
white,  and  singing  in  rapturous  strains  the  praises 
of  that  blessed  Jesus,  of  whom  he  used  to  talk 
with  you.  Yes,  his  little  hand  has  already  seized 
the  palm  of  victory;  and  none  of  us  have  ever 
beheld  him  so  beautiful,  so  perfect,  as  when  we 
shall  see  him  another  time.  But  I  will  leave  this 
painful,  afflicting  theme,  for  I  fear  I  shall  only 
open  afresh  the  bleeding  wounds  of  your  heart. 
Suffice  it  to  say,  that  both  Mr.  S.  and  myself 
most  deeply  sympathize  with  you,  and  devoutly 
pray  that  these  afflictions,  ordered  by  our  kind  and 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      117 

tender  Parent,  may  work  out  for  you,  and  for  all 
the  friends,  the  weeping  friends  of  precious  Lu- 
cius, a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight 
of  glory. 

Your  darling  Carey  Judson  is  still  left.  Train 
him,  dear  ma',  for  heaven.  Look  not  upon  him 
as  your  own  —  do  not  place  too  much  affection 
on  him.  This  is  what  we  are  too  liable  to  do ; 
and  our  Saviour  will  not  permit  us  to  love  any 
object  above  himself.  My  love  for  my  dear  hus- 
band and  children  is,  I  fear,  sometimes  too  ar- 
dent ;  and  all  I  can  do  is  to  bow  to  my  Father  in 
secret,  and  beg  him  to  keep  my  affections  at  the 
right  mark." 

To  Mrs.  Davenport,  Bankok,  Siam. 

"JUNE,  1838. 
My  dear  Frances, 

I  have  just  heard  that  the  vessel  by  which 
we  hastily  prepared  some  letters  for  Bankok,  has 
not  yet  left,  and  I  have  a  few  moments  in  which 
to  pen  you  a  line  or  two.  I  wrote  a  long  letter  to 
sister  Jones  yesterday,  and  in  two  hours  after- 
wards received  a  letter  from  brother  Deane,  con- 
taining the  truly  melancholy  intelligence  that  she 
is  no  more.  Sincerely  do  I  sympathize  with  her 
bereaved  husband,  her  dear  little  helpless  babes, 
and  the  missionary  circle.  Truly,  you  have  all 
met  with  a  loss,  and  a  great  one  too.  She  was, 
doubtless,  highly  qualified  for  the  sphere  of  use- 
fulness in  which  she  was  placed.  From  what  I 
saw  of  her,  she  seemed  a  noble  example  for  all 
missionaries ;  and  I  became  very  much  attached 
to  her.  The  Lord,  however,  has,  in  his  infinite 
wisdom,  seen  fit  to  deprive  the  devoted  husband 


118  MEMOIR   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

of  a  '  help  meet,'  the  little  babes  of  an  affec- 
tionate mother,  the  missionary  band  of  a  dear 
friend,  and  the  heathen  world  of  an  efficient  la- 
borer ;  and  since  he  has  done  it,  it  behoves  us 
to  submit  without  a  murmur.  May  we,  who  are 
left,  learn  a  lesson  from  this  afflicting  event ;  and 
be  careful  to  have  our  lamps  trimmed  and  burn- 
ing, so  that  when  the  bridegroom  comes  he  may 
not  find  us  unprepared. 

Brother  Deane  wrote  in  great  haste,  and  con- 
sequently did  not  give  us  the  particulars  of  her 
death.  I  wish  you  would  write,  and  tell  me  all 
about  her.  What  she  said,  how  she  felt,  and  any 
thing  connected  with  her  death,  will  be  thankfully 
received. 

I  write  in  great  haste,  and  consequently  cannot 
say  much.  I  will  mention  two  circumstances. 
In  recent  letters  from  America  I  learn  the  pleas- 
ing intelligence,  that  my  dear  sister  Susan  has 
professed  religion,  and  that  pa'  has  baptized 
her.  I  know  you  will  rejoice  with  me.  Surely 
there  is  cause  for  rejoicing.  Susan  writes  me  a 
beautiful  letter,  telling  me  all  her  feelings.  The 
next  circumstance  that  I  will  not  pass  over,  is  the 
death  of  darling  Lucius.  Ma'  is  greatly  dis- 
tressed, but  I  do  not  grieve.  No,  he  is  safely 
housed  from  every  storm  —  the  tender  plant  can- 
not now  be  withered. 

Revivals  of  religion  abound.  My  father  has 
led  down  into  the  liquid  grave  about  five  hundred 
willing  converts  to  the  religion  of  Jesus. 

Love  to  your  dear  husband.  We  are  all  well, 
but  Mr.  Shuck  —  his  health  is  precarious. 

Adieu,  adieu,  dear  Frances  — 

Most  affectionately  yours, 

H.  S." 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      119 

""         ^      /* 

To  her  Sister  Swan. 

»  JUNE  5, 1838. 

My  very  dear  Sister, 

Your  long,  interesting,  and  affectionate  let- 
ter, containing  the  pleasing,  long-wished-for  and 
prayedfor  intelligence  of  your  conversion,  reach- 
ed us  about  a  week  ago,  and  without  any  imme- 
diate opportunity  for  sending  letters  to  America, 
I  joyfully  seat  myself  for  the  purpose  of  replying 
to  it  —  a  privilege  not  a  little  esteemed  by  your 
dear  sister.  Rest  assured,  beloved  Susan,  that 
the  contents  of  your  letter  imparted  a  joy  not 
easily  described,  both  to  your  brother  and  myself. 

I  had  be^un  to  be  quite  impatient  to  hear  from 
you  all.'  Mr.  S.'s  health  not  being  very  good,  he 
took  a  trip  to  Hong  Kong,  not  far  from  Macao, 
hoping  to  be  benefited  by  it.  During  his  absence 
I  felt  very  lonely,  and  often  wished  for  letters 
from  h: >ine.  After  remaining  one  week,  Mr.  S. 
returned.  The  first  words  almost  that  he  said 
were,  '  I  have  received  letters  from  home.'  As 
they  were  in  his  trunk,  which  had  not  yet  come, 
I  asked,  'What  is  the  news?'  In  answer  to 
which  question,  he  said,  '  There  are  great  revi- 
vals all  over  Virginia.  Your  pa'  has  baptized  a 
great  many,  and  among  them  Susan.  Imagine 
my  delight.  /  cannot  describe  it.  I  flew  into 
his  arms,  and  wept  —  wept  for  joy.  That  night  I 
awoke  about  twelve  o'clock,  and  could  not  sleep. 
I  was  thinking  about  you.  I  could,  indeed,  with 
the  Psalmist,  say, '  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul!' 

And  now,  my  dear  sister,  since  you  have  taken 
the  name  of  a  Christian,  will  you  not  permit  one 
who  loves  you  with  affection  of  the  deepest  kind, 
and  who  humbly  trusts  that  she  too  knows,  by 


120  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

happy  experience,  what  it  is  to  have  the  love  of 
God  shed  abroad  in  her  heart,  to  give  you  a  word 
of  caution  ?  Remember,  dearest  Susan,  the  name 
of  a  Christian,  of  itself,  will  not  take  us  to  heav- 
en. By  living  holy  lives,  and  by  constant  and 
fervent  prayer,  must  we  '  enter  in  at  the  strait 
gate.'  Seek  daily  supplies  of  grace  from  the 
pure  and  living  fountain.  Be  cautious  in  your 
remarks,  and  your  conduct,  at  all  times,  especial- 
ly when  in  company  with  unconverted  persons. 
Read,  and  not  only  read,  but  study  the  word  of 
God.  Let  the  Bible  be  your  constant  companion, 
never  suffering  one  day  to  pass  without  perusing 
a  portion  of  it.  Remember  that,  as  yet,  you  are 
but  a  babe  in  Christ.  You  have  much  to  learn. 
Endeavor,  as  you  increase  in  years,  to  increase 
also  in  wisdom  and  grace.  Prepare  yourself  for 
temptations,  for,  be  assured,  you  will  have  them. 
Satan,  with  all  the  deceit  imaginable,  will  clothe 
himself  in  lovely  garments,  in  order  to  decoy  you 
from  the  path  of  truth  and  righteousness  ;  but  be 
firm,  be  unmovable,  and  at  all  times  ready  to 
say,  '  Get  thee  behind  me,  Satan.'  In  the  Bible 
you  will  find  for  your  comfort  many  delightful 
promises.  One  I  will  name,  which,  in  this  land 
of  darkness,  I  find  precious.  '  As  thy  days,  so 
shall  thy  strength  be.'  Charming  words  !  Christ 
will  enable  you  to  overcome  every  temptation, 
if  you  will  throw  yourself  helpless  at  his  feet, 
and  seek  help  alone  from  him.  One  thing,  es- 
pecially, let  me  remind  you  of — the  case  of  the 
heathen.  You  must  endeavor  to  cast  in  your 
mite  towards  the  evangelization  of  the  world. 
I  do  not  write  to  you,  in  this  manner,  dear  sis- 
ter, because  I  am  perfect  in  these  things.  Ah, 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      121 

no ;  I  feel  my  weakness ;  but  it  is  because  I  love 
you,  and  feel  it  to  be  my  duty  to  remind  you  of 
them. 

Remember  me  to  all  the  dear  children.  Kiss 
them  for  me.  Tell  them  to  take  warning  from 
the  death  of  darling  Lucius,  and  be  good  children, 
as  he  was,  and  then  they  may  hope  to  be  reunit- 
ed with  him  again.  May  the  Lord  in  mercy 
keep  and  bless  you,  my  sister,  and  when  time 
with  us  shall  end,  may  we  all  meet  in  heaven  to 
rejoice  together,  is  the  constant  and  sincere  prayer 
of  your  dear  sister.  H.  S." 

To  Mrs.  Davenport,  Bankok. 

"  JUNE  30,  1838. 

I  deeply  lament  the  intelligence  from  broth- 
er Deane,  that  Ah  Loo  has  fallen.  No  death  of 
which  I  have  heard  has  made  me  grieve  like  it. 
What  could  have  led  him  to  do  so  vile  an  act,  I 
cannot  conceive.  While  he  was  with  us,  his 
character  was  lovely,  and  he  proved  himself  an 
exemplary  Christian.  But  if  those  in  America, 
after  professing  to  be  converted,  and,  for  years, 
preaching  the  gospel  to  others,  fall,  may  we  not 
expect  to  find  such  cases  among  the  heathen!  I 
suppose  you  have  long  ago  heard  of  the  wicked 
conduct  of  Mr.  *  *  *  *.  He,  who  once  appeared 
an  amiable,  lovely,  and  devoted  Christian,  has 
turned  suddenly  about,  and  has  engaged  in  all 
manner  of  wickedness.  He  has  been  dismissed 
from  the  church  and  the  ministry.  In  view  of 
these  things,  may  we  not  indeed  say,  '  Lord,  have 
mercy  upon  us'?  May  he  keep  us  from  bringing 
a  reproach  on  the  cause  which  we  have  espoused." 
11 


122  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

To  Her  Sister  Isabella. 

"  OCT.  9,  1838. 

Your  brief,  but  exceedingly  interesting  epistle 
of  April  1  reached  me  a  few  days  ago,  and  I 
take  the  earliest  opportunity  to  reply  to  it.  My 
time  is  almost  wholly  taken  up  with  my  domes- 
tic concerns,  studying  Chinese,  and  doing-  all 
that  I  can,  at  present,  towards  teaching  the  igno- 
rant but  interesting  people  in  whose  midst  I 
dwell.  I  very  much  fear,  therefore,  that  I  have 
rather  slackened  in  my  correspondence  with  my 
friends  ;  but  I  beg  they  will  all  excuse  me.  I 
will  write  as  frequently  as  my  time  will  possibly  ad- 
mit. It  will  be  needless  for  me  here,  my  dear  Bell, 
to  repeat  the  assurance,  which  I  have  expressed  in 
all  my  former  letters,  that  to  hear  from  my  dear 
distant  friends,  especially  my  father's  family,  is  a 
delightful  privilege.  Suffice  it  to  say,  that  the 
affection  which  I  cherish  for  you  all,  '  grows  with 
my  growth  and  strengthens  with  my  strength.' 
Distance  and  time  only  serve  to  make  me  love 
you  more.  We  shall,  in  all  probability,  no  more 
see  each  other  in  the  flesh ;  but  let  us  leap  over 
time,  and  look  beyond  this  vale  of  tears,  where,  if 
we  are  the  children  of  God,  we  shall  meet  —  meet 
to  part  no  more.  What  matters  it,  then,  that  we 
are  now  separated  ?  Let  us  endeavor  while  we 
live  to  glorify  God,  and  render  ourselves  useful 
to  our  fellow-beings,  and  our  reward  will  be 
great. 

You  do  not  once  allude  to  the  subject  of  reli- 
gion in  your  letter.  In  one  of  my  dear  sister 
Susan's  recent  letters,  she  caused  me  to  hope 
that  you  too  felt  that  you  were  a  sinner,  and 
desired  to  participate  in  the  Christian's  joys  and 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      123 

privileges  ;  but  from  your  silence  I  fear  those 
desires  have,  in  a  measure,  died  away.  O  my 
sister,  what  can  /  say  to  you  ?  Knowing,  as  I  do, 
that  you  are  in  a  land  of  Bibles,  and  that,  from 
time  to  time,  you  are  permitted  to  listen  to  the 
blessed  gospel,  preached  by  men  of  piety  and 
talents,  and  that  even  in  your  own  family  there 
are  some  whose  delight  it  would  be  to  impart  to 
you  such  instructions  as  would  lead  you  in  the 
path  of  peace  and  safety  —  I  say,  knowing  these 
things,  I  can  hardly  hope,  far  away  as  I  am,  that 
what  I  say  may  be  of  any  avail.  Nevertheless, 
I  cannot,  I  must  not  remain  silent.  I  feel  that 
when  I_  lived  with  you,  I  did  not,  as  often  as  I 
should  have  done,  speak  with  you  on  the  subject 
of  your  soul's  salvation.  I  fear  that  my  exam- 
ple, too,  was  often  pernicious  in  the  extreme  — 
that,  though  I  professed  to  be  a  child  of  light,  I 
walked  in  darkness.  But,  my  sister,  for  the 
past  I  grieve ;  yes,  deeply  repent  that  such  was 
the  case.  However,  forgetting  the  things  that 
are  behind,  let  me  press  onward,  with  renewed 
energy,  to  the  mark  for  the  prize  of  the  high 
calling  of  God,  which  is  in  Christ  Jesus.  And 
now  I  ask,  do  you  not  feel  anxious  to  follow  the 
example  of  dear  Susan  ?  Do  you  not  see  that 
she  is  happier  now  than  in  former  times?  And 
have  you  no  desire  to  participate  with  her  in  the 
joys  which  religion  yields  ?  If  so,  delay  no 
longer.  The  all-devastating  hand  of  time  is 
fast  hastening  us  to  the  tomb ;  and,  O  !  what 
an  awful  thought,  that  should  my  precious  Isabella 
be  taken  away  in  her  sins,  I  meet  her  no  more 
forever ;  and  more  than  all,  she  will  not  only  be 
separated  from  her  dear  friends,  but  will  be  denied 


124  MEMOIR    OP    MBS.    SHUCK. 

the  presence  of  Jesus.  Be  persuaded  to  give  up 
the  pleasure  of  this  world  for  nobler  and  more 
lasting  joys  beyond  the  skies. 

'  Beware  of  pleasure's  siren  song ; 
Mas '.  it  cannot  soothe  you  long ; 
It  cannot  quiet  Jordan's  wave, 
Nor  cbeer  the  dork  and  silent  grave.' 

A  thousand  things  press  on  my  mind,  which  I 
would  fain  give  expression  to,  if  time  and  paper 
permitted  ;  but  I  must  conclude.  Thank  Heaven, 
we  are  all  well.  I  enjoy  better  health  than 
almost  any  one  in  Macao.  What  a  blessing ! 
The  boys  are  hearty,  and,  as  the  cold  winter 
approaches,  their  little  cheeks  begin  to  grow  rosy. 
Lewis  is  nearly  as  large  as  Robert  was  when 
I  left.  He,  as  well  as  Ryland,  is  a  sweet  boy 
Love  to  all  —  to  every  one. 

Yours,  most  devotedly." 

To  her  Father. 

"  Nov.  16,  1838. 

I  have  just  heard  that  the  American  vessel 
Albion  will  leave  this  place  in  a  day  or  two  for 
New  York.  I  hasten,  therefore,  to  pen  you  a 
few  lines,  to  inform  you  of  our  continued  health 
and  happiness  in  this  remote  corner  of  the  earth. 
I  am  now  alone,  with  my  dear,  dear  little  chil- 
dren, their  fond  papa  being  in  Canton.  He 
thought  a  little  relaxation  from  study  would 
benefit  his  health  ;  and  consequently  took  leave 
of  us  two  weeks  ago.  I  suppose  he  will  be  ab- 
sent one  month  from  the  time  he  left.  I  had  a 
letter  from  him  this  morning.  He  is  very  well, 
and  has  seen  much  of  the  country  round  about 
Canton. 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      125 

We  now  enjoy  the  cool  winter  air.  This  is 
the  commencement  of  our  winter  season.  We 
expect  to  have  it  very  cold,  as  the  summer  has 
been  exceedingly  sultry  and  oppressive.  I  really 
do  not  think,  were  I  to  search  the  world  over,  I 
could  find  a  climate  better  suited  to  my  constitu- 
tion than  that  of  this  dear  little  spot.  My  health 
is  very  good  —  never  was  better.  "  May  I  feel 
thankful  to  the  Giver  of  this  great  blessing.  I 
shall  feel  rather  loath  to  leave  Macao ;  but  still, 
if  it  is  the  wish  of  the  Board  and  the  will  of 
Heaven,  I  would  most  joyfully  go  without  one 
murmur. 

I  feel  happy  to  inform  you,  my  dear  pa',  that 
I  progress  in  the  language  of  these  vast  multi- 
tudes, and  sincerely  desire  to  do  something  for 
their  eternal  welfare.  I  hope  you  daily  remem- 
ber us,  and  our  work,  at  a  '  mercy  seat.'  We  do 
not  tire,  and  O  that  we  never  may  ! 

We  received  from  brother  Ryland,  the  other 
day,  by  the  ship  '  Omega,'  a  box  containing  many 
useful  articles.  How  very  kind  he  is  to  us!  This 
is  the  second  box  sent  by  him.  The  contents 
were  valued  at  thirty-seven  dollars.  Since  he  has 
been  so  truly  kind,  I  am  glad  that  we  have  called 
our  youngest  son  after  him." 

To  her  Father. 

"  DEC.  30,  1838. 

On  this  afternoon  of  the  last  holy  Sabbath  in 
the  present  year,  I  desire  to  spend  an  hour  or 
so  in  writing  to  you ;  for  it  seems  a  long  time 
since  I  last  wrote.  I  am  entirely  alone,  my  dear 
husband  having  gone  over  the  water  to  distribute 
to  these  idolatrous  people  the  word  of  God.  The 
11* 


126  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

children  have  also  gone  out  for  a  walk  in  the  fresh 
air,  as  they  are  accustomed  to  do.  Many,  many 
items  crowd  upon  my  mind,  which  I  wish  to 
inform  you  of;  but,  in  the  first  place,  I  must  tell 
you  how  ill,  dangerously  ill,  I  have  been  within 
the  past  month.  I  think  I  wrote,  to  you  by  the 
'  Albion,'  which  left  in  October.  I  then  men- 
tioned that  Mr.  Shuck  was  gone  to  Canton.  My 
health  was  very  good.  However,  in  a  week  from 
that  period,  I  began  to  lose  my  appetite,  which  I 
thought  nothing  of,  though  I  also  suffered  very 
much  with  daily  headaches.  Very  suddenly, 
one  evening  about  9  o'clock,  I  was  seized  with 
violent  pains  in  my  chest.  Several  persons  hap- 
pened to  be  present,  as  it  was  a  meeting  evening. 
As  soon  as  the  service  ended,  I  went  to  my  room, 
and  called  Mrs.  Squire,  one  of  the  missionaries, 
to  come  to  me.  Fortunately  she  knew  what  to 
do  for  me.  She  ordered  bottles  of  hot  water  to 
be  placed  wherever  I  felt  any  pain,  and  after 
sending  for  the  Dr.,  rubbed  me  herself,  and  con- 
tinued applying  the  hot  water,  till  at  last,  after  an 
hour  or  two  of  severe  pain,  I  found  some  relief.  Dr. 
Anderson  could  not  be  found  for  a  long  time,  and 
had  I  been  alone,  I  hardly  think  I  could  have 
survived.  About  12  o'clock  at  night,  the  Dr. 
made  his  appearance,  gave  me  medicine,  di- 
rected me  to  keep  something  warm  to  my  chest, 
and  then  bade  me  good  night,  saying,  *  If  you 
feel  the  slightest  return  of  pain,  immediately  in- 
form me.'  I  slept  quietly  the  remainder  of  the 
night,  and,  though  exceedingly  weak  in  the  morn- 
ing, I  felt  myself  very  much  better.  As  soon  as 
it  was  light,  Dr.  A.  was  by  my  bedside,  and  from 
the  first  moment  he  saw  me  he  seemed  alarmed. 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      127 

I  did  not  feel  ill,  and  wondered  why  he  should 
look  so.  In  the  course  of  the  day,  Mrs.  King,  a 
dear  friend,  came  to  see  me,  and  I  saw  something 
strange  in  her  looks,  also.  She  afterwards  said, 
she  expected  to  see  me  dead  in  another  hour. 
Dr.  A.  was  very  kind,  and  truly  attentive  to  me. 
His  visits  were  as  frequent  as  four  times  in  the 
day.  About  9  o'clock  the  following  night,  I  again 
became  worse  and  worse,  till  I  was  quite  like  a 
mad  person.  Dr.  A.  said  I  was  perfectly  deliri- 
ous. He  wrote  up  to  my  dear  absent  husband, 
and  requested  him  to  come  home,  who  lost  no 
time  in  doing  so.  He  knew  nothing  of  my  ill- 
ness, as  only  the  day  before  I  wrote  a  long  letter 
to  him."  For  many  days,  I  was  too  ill  to  see  any 
one  but  those  who  attended  to  me.  Indeed,  the 
Dr.  would  not  even  permit  them  to  speak  to  me, 
so  great  was  my  fever.  In  mercy,  however,  the 
Lord  saw  it  well  to  spare  me,  and,  after  a  fort- 
night, I  was  again  able  to  leave  my  bed. 

Dearest  pa',  I  am  sure  you  will  feel  anxious  to 
know  how  I  felt  in  view  of  entering  on  the  un- 
tried realities  of  eternity.  To  tell  the  truth,  I  did 
not  think  I  was  going  to  die,  after  the  first  night; 
then  I  supposed  I  had  the  cholera,  and  felt  that  I 
must  soon  bid  a  final  adieu  to  earth,  and  I  am 
happy  to  say  that  death  appeared  as  a  dear  friend, 
come  to  release  me  from  pain,  and  guide  me  to 
my  heavenly  home.  I  cannot  say  that  I  forgot 
my  devoted  Lewis,  and  darling  babes.  Ah,  no ! 
I  felt,  indeed,  that  they  were  ties  tightly  binding 
me  to  this  lower  world ;  but  I  was  resigned  to  go. 
I  felt  that  my  Saviour  would  protect  my  dear 
children,  and  comfort  my  affectionate  husband. 
I  prayed,  however,  to  live  long  enough  to  behold 


II 

128  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

once  more  the  face  of  my  absent  companion. 
How  good  and  how  gracious  has  the  Lord  been 
to  your  dear,  distant  Henrietta!  Though,  in  his 
infinite  wisdom,  he  saw  fit  to  afflict  my  body  with 
suffering  for  a  season,  yet,  in  his  loving  kindness, 
he  again  restored  me.  Bless  the  Lord,  O  my 
soul !  for  he  hath  not  dealt  with  me  after  my  sins, 
nor  rewarded  me  according  to  my  transgressions. 
May  the  life  which  he  has  lengthened  be  devoted 
to  his  service. 

Don't  be  uneasy,  dear  pa',  about  me  now,  for  I 
am  very  well.  I  soon  regained  my  strength,  and 
I  am  even  better  than  before  my  sickness. 

I  am  beginning  to  think  seriously  about  send- 
ing Master  Lewis  home  to  some  good  friend  to 
take  care  of  him,  that  he  may  receive  a  first  rate 
education,  and  return  to  aid  us  in  our  work.  Of 
course,  I  do  not  mean  to  do  so  for  some  years  to 
come.  He  is  now  two  years  and  a  half  old,  arid 
if  he  lives  to  be  ten,  I  think  we  shall  despatch 
him  for  some  seminary  in  the  United  States. 
When  you  write,  please  give  me  your  opinion 
relative  to  it.  There  are  no  advantages  here  for 
receiving  instruction,  but,  on  the  contrary,  every 
possible  disadvantage.  It  would  be  very  painful 
to  give  him  up,  and  I  would  not  do  it,  did  I  not 
know  that  it  is  for  his  own  good.  Both  Mr.  S. 
and  myself  feel  anxious  to  hear  your  opinion,  as, 
it  would  assist  us  greatly  in  deciding  the  case.  I 
beg  you  will  express  yourself  freely.  Do  you  think 
he  had  better  remain  with  his  parents  in  a  heathen 
land,  and  receive  such  an  education  as  they  can 
give,  or  be  sent  from  them,  to  be  reared  by  others? 

I  have  also  a  Chinese  youth,  of  very  respect- 
able parents,  who,  I  expect,  will  come  to  me  in  a 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      129 

few  days.  He  is  an  orphan,  and  is  heir  to  about 
$75,000,  in  money  and  property,  and  seems  a 
promising  lad.  We  wish  to  send  him  to  be  edu- 
cated in  America,  trusting  in  the  Lord  that  he 
may,  by  Him,  be  made  wise  unto  salvation,  and 
return  to  preach  the  gospel  of  Christ  to  his  de- 
luded fellow-men.  The  father  of  this  youth 
lived  in  Singapore  at  the  time  we  were  there. 
He  placed  his  money  in  the  hands  of  some  gen- 
tlemen residing  there,  and  embarked  with  his 
little  son  for  China.  We  soon  found  out  that  he 
was  in  Macao,  and  he  very  often  visited  us,  made 
us  presents,  and  brought  his  boy  to  see  us.  He 
spoke  English  very  well.  Here  he  rented  a 
house,  and  was  making  money,  not  content  with 
what  he  already  possessed.  A  few  days  ago,  a 
band  of  robbers,  knowing  him  to  be  in  possession 
of  money,  broke  into  his  house  at  night,  and  so 
alarmed  the  poor  man,  that  he  leaped  from  the 
window  into  the  street,  which  wounded  him  so 
severely  as  to  cause  his  death  in  eight  or  ten 
days.  The  body  still  remains  in  the  house,  and 
I  went  with  Mr.  S.,  the  other  day,  to  see  his  son, 
and  were  told  by  the  man's  friends,  that  they 
were  hunting  a  lucky  spot  in  which  to  place  the 
body.  As  soon  as  the  funeral  ceremonies  are 
over,  the  little  boy  is  to  come  to  me.  '  I  am  fear- 
ful something  may  prevent  it,  which  would  much 
disappoint  me.  I  took  a  great  fancy  to  the  dear 
little  fellow,  when  I  first  saw  him  in  Singapore. 
He  is  the  handsomest  Chinese  child  I  know. 
His  complexion  is  fair,  his  eyes  bright  black,  and 
very  expressive.  I  hope  he  may  come  to  me,  and 
I  shall  do  my  best  for  him.  Of  course  he  will 
be  supported  by  his  father's  agents  in  Singapore. 


130  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

We  have  now  in  our  family  one  little  Uoy,  ten 
years  old,  supported  by  Bro.  Hume,  (of  Ports- 
mouth, Va.,)  who  is  to  stay  with  us  till  he  is 
twenty-one  years  old.  He  improves  fast.  '  Jane 
Maria,'  of  whom  I  have  previously  told  you, 
still  goes  on  well.  She  reads  and  speaks  English 
and  Chinese.  She  receives  from  Mrs.  Keeling 
five  dollars,  and  from  Mrs.  Sinton  five  dollars, 
annually,  towards  her  support ;  but  I  am  sorry  to 
say  it  is  not  sufficient.  I  hope  to  come  on  by  de- 
grees, and,  by  and  by,  I  shall  have  a  large  school. 
I  cannot  better  employ  my  time  now  than  in 
studying  Chinese,  and  teaching  these  children. 
Jane  Maria  A.  Cue  and  Master  Lewis  Hall  form 
a  class,  and  are  daily  taught  by  myself  in  Eng- 
lish, and  by  a  Chinese  teacher.  Lewis  gets  on 
very  well  in  English.  He  speaks  Chinese  per- 
fectly, but  does  not  like  to  read  it.  He  knows 
most  of  his  letters,  but,  strange  to  me,  though  he 
understands  every  word  that  is  said  to  him  in  Eng- 
lish, he  will  not  speak  a  word  in  English,  if  he 
can  avoid  it.  Chinese  really  seems  to  be  his 
mother  tongue." 

The  above  letter  touches  on  the  sorest  diffi- 
culty of  the  missionary  enterprise  —  the  proper 
training  and  education  of  the  children  of  mission- 
aries. Can  this  be  done  in  heathen  countries? 
Missionaries,  so  far  as  we  are  acquainted  with 
their  views,  concur  in  the  opinion  that  it  cannot 
be.  Be  it  remembered,  too,  that  this  opinion  is 
formed,  not  only  with  the  amplest  opportunities  of 
judging  correctly,  but  in  opposition  to  the  dictates 
of  natural  affection.  The  reasons  for  the  opinion 
are  clear  and  convincing.  The  young  must  have 


REMARKS   BY   THE   COMPILER. 


1*1 


associates.  If  intelligent,  refined,  and  pious  so- 
ciety cannot  be  found,  they  will  inevitably,  and, 
from  the  depravity  of  their  hearts,  most  readily, 
mingle  with  the  ignorant,  vicious,  and  degraded. 
Association  produces  assimilation.  Unable  to  el- 
evate the  heathen,  they  will  sink  to  the  leVel  of 
heathenism.  Nor  is  the  difficulty  diminished  in 
those  places  where  Europeans  and  Americans  in 
considerable  numbers  are  settled.  These  foreign- 
ers are  generally  mere  adventurers,  unprincipled, 
vicious,  eager  in  the  pursuit  of  money,  and  un- 
scrupulous as  to  the  means  of  acquiring  it.  They 
are  a  reproach  to  the  Christian  name,  raise  a 
strong  barrier  to  the  progress  of  the  gospel,  and 
prove  a  curse  to  the  heathen  among  whom  they 
dwell.  They  not  only  send  their  own  children 
to  be  educated,  but  design,  when  they  shall  have 
accumulated  a  sufficient  amount  of  treasure,  to 
return  themselves  to  their  native  lands.  It  is 
clear  that  such  a  population  cannot  improve  the 
prospect  of  the  moral  and  religious  cultivation  of 
youth. 

There  is  another  serious  objection  to  the  rear- 
ing of  children  in  the  East.  The  climate  is 
enervating.  The  descendants  of  Europeans  or 
Americans  brought  up  in  the  country  have  nei- 
ther physical  nor  mental  energy.  An  intelligent 
gentleman,  who  spent  many  years  in  Hindostan, 
informed  us  that  he  never  knew  a  man  of  Euro- 
pean descent,  reared  in  the  country,  (and  there 
were  many  such  there,)  of  any  worth.  The  de- 
bilitating influence  of  the  climate  is,  doubtless, 
greater  in  Hindostan,  Burmah,  and  Siam,  than  in 
China;  but  even  in  China,  particularly  that  part 
of  it  which  lies  south  of  Canton,  the  evil  is  very 
serious. 


* 

132  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

We  have  glanced  at  one  side  of  this  subject : 
let  us  now  examine  the  other.  Parents  are  di- 
vinely constituted  the  instructors  and  guardians 
of  their  children.  The  business  of  training  thenf 
properly  is  exceedingly  arduous  and  trying.  To 
secure  its  faithful  performance,  the  beneficent  Au- 
thor of  our  being  has  implanted  in  the  parental 
bosom  an  affection  which  no  toil  can  weary,  no 
difficulties  discourage,  and  no  waywardness  ex- 
tinguish. The  parent  may,  indeed,  sometimes 
find  an  adequate  substitute  for  training  his  child. 
A  child  of  sprightly  intellect  and  amiable  dispo- 
sition may  gain  the  warm  affection  of  his  adopted 
parent ;  but  if  he  be  dull,  and  sullen,  and  way- 
ward,—  if  the  rod  of  correction  must  be  employed, 
and  long-continued  watchfulness,  and  authority, 
and  effort,  be  necessary  to  subdue  his  perverse  tem- 
per, —  who,  beside  the  parent,  is  sufficient  for  the 
task  ?  God  says  to  Christian  fathers,  "  Bring  up 
your  children  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of 
the  Lord."  Can  this  most  important  obligation 
be  properly,  without  positive  necessity,  transferred 
to  others  ? 

There  is  another  view  of  this  matter  which  de- 
mands our  serious  consideration.  To  part  with 
children  at  the  tender  and  interesting  age  at 
which  it  is  proper  to  send  them  home  to  be  educa- 
ted, is  a  most  painful  and  heart-crushing  sacrifice. 
We  have  heard  much,  and  much  that  is  visionary, 
at  least,  exaggerated,  of  the  privations  and  suffer- 
ings of  missionary  life.  They  are  just  such  sac- 
rifices as  the  men  of  the  world  are  constantly 
making,  without  a  murmur,  in  pursuit  of  wealth 
or  honor.  To  what  country  has  not  Commerce 
extended  her  search  for  traffic  in  advance  of  mis- 


REMARKS  BY  THE  COMPILER.        133 

sions  ?  If  the  missionary  leaves  his  home,  his 
friends,  and  the  enjoyments  of  refined  society, 
and  traverses  oceans,  so  does  the  adventurer  in 
quest  of  money,  or  trade.  And  where  there  is 
one  missionary  longing  to  impart  to  the  perishing 
heathen  the  treasures  of  salvation,  there  are  scores, 
or  hundreds,  who  are  equally  eager  to  amass 
among  the  heathen  the  treasures  of  this  world. 
In  one  aspect  only  does  the  sacrifice  of  the  Chris- 
tian missionary  appear  more  painful  than  that  of 
the  worldly  adventurer  —  the  one  expects,  when  he 
shall  have  amassed  a  certain  amount  of  wealth,  to 
return  to  his  native  land,  and  close  his  life  in  ease 
and  splendor ;  the  other  designs  to  labor  on  amid 
the  gloom  and  abominations  of  heathenism  to  the 
close  of  life.  In  point  of  fact,  however,  many  of 
the  worshippers  of  Mammon  become  satisfied  in 
the  dark  lands  of  their  adoption,  and  are  willingly 
buried  in  a  heathen  soil. 

But  to  send  child  after  child,  at  the  interesting 
age  of  ten  years,  to  a  distant  Christian  land  to 
be  educated,  among  strangers,  with  very  little 
prospect  that  they  will  ever  return  to  cheer  the 
hearts  of  their  fond  parents,  in  the  dark  land  of 
their  adoption  and  labors,  is,  indeed,  a  sacrifice 
which  no  words  can  fully  express,  and  no  heart, 
which  has  not  made  it,  can  adequately  conceive. 
It  is  a  sacrifice,  which,  if  it  can  be  evaded,  should 
never  be  offered.  It  may  well  be  questioned 
whether  God  demands  it  of  his  servants. 

But  how  is  the  difficulty  to  be  obviated?  Some 
have  proposed  that  missionaries  shall  be  appointed 
for  a  limited  term.  By  this  arrangement  they 
would  be  withdrawn  from  their  fields  of  labor 
when  best  qualified  for  usefulness,  and  would 
12 


134  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

return  home  unfitted  for  effective  service.  Others 
have  thought  that  missionaries  should  enter  on 
fields  of  service  without  wives.  We  confess  we 
incline  to  this  opinion.  Unmarried  missionaries 
would  be  less  encumbered,  and  more  easily  sup- 
ported. In  carrying  this  plan  into  execution,  there 
would,  I  apprehend,  be  one  insuperable  obstacle. 
Missionaries  are  not  likely  to  concur  in  the  opin- 
ion. The  plan  has  been  suggested  of  establish- 
ing a  seminary  of  learning  in  some  portion  of  the 
mission  field  for  the  instruction  of  the  children  of 
missionaries.  To  say  nothing  of  the  cost  of  such 
an  arrangement,  which  does  not  perhaps  deserve 
serious  consideration,  it  leaves  the  pupils  subject, 
in  a  great  degree,  to  the  contaminating  influence 
of  heathenism,  and,  in  tropical  regions,  to  the  de- 
bilitating influence  of  the  climate.  But  if  they 
must  be  returned  to  the  land  of  their  parents,  (and 
this  seems  likely,  for  a  season,  to  be  the  adopted 
course,)  and  provision  should  not  be  made  for  their 
maintenance  and  education  by  relatives,  or  pious 
and  beneficent  individuals,  it  should  be  done  by 
missionary  boards.  Justice,  gratitude,  and  sound 
policy,  imperatively  demand  that  this  burden  should 
be  promptly,  generously,  and  cheerfully  sustained 
by  the  churches.  If  missionaries  faithfully  devote 
their  lives  and  powers  to  the  promotion  of  a  com- 
mon cause,  and  part  with  their  children  to  pre- 
serve them  from  the  contaminations  of  heathen- 
ism, can  we  expect  to  please  God,  or  secure  his 
blessing,  if  these  children,  so  impressively  com- 
mitted to  our  charge,  are  not  duly  cared  for  and 
instructed  ? 


(  135  ) 


CHAPTER  VII. 


1839  —  Erroneous  Views  of  Missionary  Life  corrected — Mrs.  Shuck 'a 
Correspondence  continued  —  Incident  in  the  Life  of  her  Oldest 
Child  —  A  Caution  for  him  —  Mrs.  Shuck's  School  —  Cost  of  sup 
porting  it —  Reference  to  the  Death  of  Lucius—  Openings  fur  Use- 
fulness in  Macao  —  Visiting  a  Village  —  Mr.  Shuck  commence* 
preaching  in  Chinese  —  Visit  of  Mr.  S.  and  Family  to  Hone  Kong 
—  Probability  of  Mr.  Shuck's  Return  to  America — Anticipations 
since  realized —  Her  I  linos  —  Death  of  a  Young  Lady  converted 
through  her  Instrumentality. 

THE  missionary  life  has  been  too  frequently  in- 
vested with  the  drapery  of  romance.  To  many  it 
has  appeared  as  a  succession  of  adventures,  ex- 
ploits, and  wonders.  This  is  a  gross  mistake.  It 
is  conceded,  that  a  voyage  to  a  distant  land,  and 
a  residence  among  a  people  of  strange  speech 
and  strange  manners,  furnish  many  scenes  to  in- 
terest the  mind  and  gratify  the  taste ;  and  that  the 
missionary  may  be  called  to  pass  through  appall- 
ing dangers,  and  events  of  thrilling  importance. 
But  the  missionary  life  is,  in  general,  one  of  un- 
ostentatious toil,  and  of  unending  anxiety.  The 
ignorant  must  be  instructed  with  unwearied 
assiduity;  ami  sin,  in  a  thousand  forms,  must 
be  incessantly  reproved  and  resisted,  almost  with- 
out the  prospect  of  suppressing  it.  The  qualities 
most  needed  in  this  service  are,  not  those  which 
constitute  the  Christian  hero,  but  the  Christian 


136  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

laborer.  In  the  mission  field  all  the  visions  of 
romance  vanish  before  the  sober  realities  of  com- 
mon every-day  efforts,  and  difficulties,  and  hopes. 
Let  us  now  enter  with  Mrs.  Shuck  on  another 
year  of  her  exemplary  and  devoted  pilgrimage. 
She  still  writes  from  Macao. 

To  Mrs.  Keding. 

'•JAW.  9,  1839. 

Your  long,  and  to  us  very  deeply  interest- 
ing epistle,  bearing  date  Oct.  28,  1837,  the  very 
day  I  was  twenty  years  old,  and  the  day  before 
the  birth  of  our  sweet  little  Ryland  Keeling, 
reached  me  safely  some  time  ago;  but  I  have 
postponed  replying  to  it  till  now,  as  I  had  just 
sent  you  a  double  letter,  and  knew  of  no  oppor- 
tunity of  sending  to  America  at  the  time  of  its 
reception.  Even  now  I  am  not  aware  of  the  de- 
parture of  any  ship  for  the  United  States,  but  the 
pleasure  of  writing  to  you  is  too  great  to  be  de- 
nied any  longer.  Every  line  in  your  letters,  and 
also  in  those  of  dear  brother  K.,  is  perused  with 
peculiar  delight,  by  my  dear  Lewis  and  myself. 
Therefore,  dear  friends,  do  gratify  us  as  frequent- 
ly as  your  time  will  permit.  The  affectionate 
and  motherly  manner  in  which  you  speak  of  our 
dear  boy,  endears  you  still  more  to  my  heart. 
Lewis  Hall  is  very  interesting,  and  is  an  uncom- 
monly intelligent  child.  It  is  not  the  blinded 
love  of  mother  which  prompts  me  to  say  so,  but 
every  one  who  sees  him  expresses  a  similar  opin- 
ion. He  was  two  years  old  on  the  third  of  last 
August,  and  strange  it  seems,  that  on  the  morning 
of  his  birthday,  he  came  running  into  the  room 
where  we  were  about  to  read  for  family  worship, 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      137 

and  said  in  Chinese,  '  Mamma,  I  wish  to  worship 
Jesus  this  morning.'  It  quite  astonished  me,  for 
previous  to  this,  I  had  once  or  twice  attempted  to 
have  him  remain  with  us  at  prayer,  but  he  ap- 
peared restless  and  uneasy,  and  I  thought  it  was 
better  to  wait  till  he  was  of  an  age  to  understand 
why  I  wished  him  to  attend  worship.  On  his 
birthday,  however,  he  quietly  seated  himself, 
and  behaved  very  well  till  worship  was  over,  and 
then,  rising  from  his  knees,  he  said  in  Chinese, 
as  usual,  '  Now  Lewis  has  worshipped  Jesus.' 
From  that  morning  he  has  continued  to  do  it  of 
his  own  accord,  except  on  two  or  three  mornings, 
when  he  did  not  seem  very  well.  This  circum- 
stance Appears  very  singular,  and  delights  me 
much.  Many  other  such  interesting  little  inci- 
dents we  have  observed  in  him.  He  is  very  kind- 
hearted  ;  generally  takes  his  meals  with  us,  and 
if  I  give  him  any  thing  a  little  nice,  like  fruit  or 
cakes,  he  immediately  asks  for  some  for  Jane  also. 
The  other  day,  his  dear  papa  gave  him  a  custard 
apple,  a  fruit  of  which  he  is  very  fond,  and  he 
broke  it  into  three  parts,  and  said,  '  One  piece  is 
for  Jane,  one  for  little  brother,  and  one  for  Lewis.' 
I  like  to  encourage  this  principle  in  him.  I  would 
go  on  and  name  many  similar  items,  but  1  am  his 
mother,  and  I  forbear.  I  have  already,  perhaps, 
said  too  much." 

Mrs.  Shuck  was  a  most  fond  and  devoted 
mother.  And  what  mother  is  not?  The  above 
letter,  written  to  an  intimate  and  endeared  friend, 
who  could  fully  sympathize  in  her  maternal  emo- 
tions, exhibits  the  intense  interest  and  delight 
with  which  she  contemplated  in  her  cherished 
12* 


138  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

offspring  the  opening  buds  of  promise.  She 
writes  with  a  mother's  hand,  and  a  mother's 
heart.  Should  the  eye  of  Lewis  fall,  as  probably 
it  will,  on  these  effusions  of  a  mother's  fondness, 
let  him  consider  that  many  a  fair  bud  has  been 
blighted — many  a  lovely  and  hopeful  child  has 
become  "  the  heaviness  of  his  mother."  Should 
he  remember  the  excellent  lessons  which  his  dear 
mother  gave  him,  and  diligently  follow  her  excel- 
lent example,  he  will  realize  the  bright  anticipa- 
tions which  she  fondly  cherished  on  his  behalf. 
A  diligent  application  to  study,  a  faithful  per- 
formance of  duty,  and  the  grace  of  God,  Tj;hich 
his  pious  mother  so  fervently  sought  on  his  be- 
half, will  make  him  wise,  good,  and  useful  —  a 
worthy  son  of  his  now  sainted  parent. 

To  her  Step-Mother. 

"  FEB.  28,  1839. 

When  I  last  wrote  you,  I  had  only  two  little 
Chinese  children  under  my  care ;  now  I  have  nine 
boys  and  girls  in  the  house,  and  expect  six  more 
to  come  this  afternoon.  These  children  require 
to  be  looked  after  very  closely.  I  should  much 
prefer  taking  girls  exclusively ;  but  so  great  is 
the  opposition  of  Chinese  parents  to  have  their 
female  children  educated,  that  I  find  I  must  take 
boys  in  order  to  get  girls.  When  I  first  men- 
tioned to  the  Chinese  here  that  I  intended  to  open 
a  school,  they  brought  boys  in  numbers  to  me,  but 
not  one  girl.  At  last,  I  refused  to  take  any  more, 
unless  for  every  boy  they  would  bring  a  girl.  So 
that  now,  in  order  to  have  attention  bestowed  on 
their  sons,  they  permit  the  poor  neglected  daugh- 
ters to  accompany  them.  I  expect  three  girls, 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      139 

and  the  same  number  of  boys,  in  an  hour  or  two, 
and  I  shall  then  have  five  girls  all  together.  I  had 
a  girl  of  eleven  years  given  to  me  the  other  day 
She  is  interesting,  and  appears  as  happy  as  possi- 
ble. I  feel  greatly  encouraged  to  proceed  in  my 
feeble  efforts  to  educate  these  poor,  degraded 
youths,  as,  in  looking  over  the  Heralds,  I  perceive 
that  the  dear  friends  in  America  are  contributing 
to  my  school.  May  the  great  Master  reward 
them,  and  may  they  never  forget  the  wants  of 
these  perishing  idolaters. 

I  sometimes  feel  sad,  when  I  have  to  write 
home  and  beg  for  money,  fearing  that  some  may 
think  we  do  not  appropriate  it  to  a  good  cause. 
But  let  "me  here  remark,  that  without  money  we 
can  do  nothing  for  the  heathen.  For  instance,  if 
we  teach  school,  every  child  received  must  be  fed 
and  clothed  by  us,  or  he  will  not  come  to  us. 
Each  one  of  my  girls  and  boys  costs  me,  for  food 
alone,  one  dollar  per  month.  Their  clothing  (will 
cost  per  annum)  I  think  about  two  dollars  more, 
(for  each  pupil.)  So,  for  twenty  children,  one 
year,  we  should  require  two  hundred  and  eighty 
dollars.  I  think  my  brethren  and  sisters  in  Lan- 
caster might  support  ten  children,  at  least.  I  re- 
ceived, the  other  day,  from  a  merchant,  who  has 
been  residing  in  Canton,  fifty  dollars  for  my 
school.  He  went  home  very  wealthy  indeed.  If 
a  man,  in  whose  heart  there  exists  no  love  to  the 
Saviour,  can  be  so  liberal,  should  not  the  disciples 
of  Jesus  also  open  their  hearts,  and  give  to  the 
needy  ? 

You  speak  feelingly  of  your  dear  departed  Lu- 
cius. I  sincerely  sympathize  with  you  in  this 
sad  bereavement.  But,  dear  ma',  do  not  grieve 


140  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

too  deeply.     God  was  kind,  undoubtedly,  in  taking 
him  away,  and  we  must  not  murmur  nor  repine. 

'Good  when  he  gives,  supremely  good; 

Nor  less  when  he  denies ; 
E'en  crosses,  from  Jiis  sovereign  band*, 
Are  blessing*  in  disguise.' 

I  have  often  read  and  admired  these  lovelj 
lines.  May  we  ever  appreciate  the  sentiment 
therein  contained.  I  wish  to  feel  towards  my 
fond  ones  that  they  are  only  lent  blessings,  and 
that  God  has  a  right  to  take  them  from  me  at  any 
moment.  Should  he  see  fit  to  prolong  their  lives, 
I  trust,  and  daily  pray,  that  they  may  be  orna- 
ments in  the  cause  of  Christ." 

To  her  Father. 

"MARCH  12,  1839 

I  have  not  written  to  you  all  so  frequently . 
of  late,  as  perhaps  I  should  have  done ;  but  I 
know  you  will  look  over  my  seeming  remissness, 
when  I  assure  you  that  I  have  so  many  responsi- 
ble duties  devolving  on  me,  that  I  have  very  little 
time  to  devote  to  letter-writing.  Engaged,  as  I 
now  am,  in  the  tuition  of  heathen  children,  I  more 
than  ever  feel  the  need  of  the  prayers  of  my  dear, 
dear  Christian  friends  in  Virginia.  I  know  I  am 
not  forgotten  by  my  fond  pa'  in  his  secret  and 
earnest  intercessions  at  a  '  throne  of  grace.'  I 
cannot  do  any  thing  without  help  from  on  high, 
and  I  beg  you  to  implore  it  on  my  behalf.  I  feel 
that  I  am  now  more  particularly  engaged  in  direct 
missionary  work  than  I  have  been  at  any  for- 
mer time,  and  I  daily  see  my  impotency.  The 
little  boys  and  girls,  now  under  my  care,  are  all 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HE3.  LETTERS.      141 

the  children  of  poor  people,  with  one  exception, 
and  are  bound  to  me  until  they  shall  be  twenty- 
one  years  of  age.  Should  the  providence  of 
God,  however,  lead  us  from  this  to  another  field, 
the  parents  will  not  allow  us  to  take  them  away ; 
but  I  am  to  place  them  under  the  care  of  some 
one  in  Macao,  which  I  could  easily  do,  as  there 
are  other  schools  here.  The  Rev.  Mr.  Brown 
and  wife  (Presbyterians)  have  lately  arrived  here 
from  America.  They  are  to  be  supported  by  the 
'  Morrison  Education  Society,'  and  will  soon 
commence  a  school.  I  like  them,  so  far,  very 
much  :  they  seem  to  be  good,  warm-hearted 
Christians.  At  present,  they  reside  with  Mr. 
Williams,  (also  a  Presbyterian,)  where  they  will 
remain  for  some  two  or  three  months,  until  they 
get  a  little  insight  into  the  language,  and  then 
they  design  taking  a  house,  and  commencing  a 
school. 

O  that  there  were  many  more  devoted  people 
of  God  in  this  land  of  idolatry  and  death,  to 
teach  the  Chinese  the  way  to  happiness  and 
heaven  !  How  delighted  should  I  be  to  welcome 
to  the  mission  field  some  of  our  dear  brethren  and 
sisters  of  Lancaster !  And  are  there  none  willing 
to  come  ?  none  who  feel  it  their  duty,  and  their 
high  privilege,  to  forsake  the  land  of  their  nativity, 
that  they  may  carry  to  the  perishing  Chinese  the 
bread  of  life?  Do  they  feel  willing  to  come,  and 
believe  that  there  are  difficulties  in  the  way?  If 
so,  let  them  look  at  the  matter  in  the  light  of 
eternity,  and  having  the  fear  of  the  Lord  before 
their  eyes.  Let  them  carry  the  subject  to  Jeho- 
vah, and  where  no  eye  but  his  can  see,  and  no 
ear  but  his  hear,  ask  if,  indeed,  these  difficulties 


142  MEMOIR   OP   MRS.    SHOCK. 

are  insuperable.  Do  they  feel  themselves  un- 
qualified for  so  great,  so  important  an  under- 
taking T  So,  I  presume,  every  one  who  engages 
in  the  work  feels;  and  this  is  just  the  feeling 
we  should  possess.  Unqualified,  indeed,  we  are; 
but  to  whom  shall  we  go  for  a  better  preparation, 
but  to  our  blessed  Master  above,  who  willingly 
imparts  instruction  —  instruction,  too,  of  the  right 
kind  — to  all  who  ask  of  him  ?  The  work  and  re- 
sponsibilities of  a  missionary  are  truly  great,  but 
have  we  not  a  great  God  to  depend  upon  1  Lean- 
ing on  our  own  understandings,  we  most  assuredly 
must  fail. 

Much  can  be  done  in  Macao.  Parents  will 
now  willingly  send  their  sons,  and  sometimes 
their  daughters,  to  be  instructed.  Gentlemen  can 
at  any  time  visit  the  Chinese  in  their  own  little 
filthy  huts,  and  commend  to  them  the  gospel  of 
Christ.  Female  missionaries  are  always  wel- 
comed, with  much  politeness,  to  the  rooms  of  the 
neglected  and  degraded  women  of  China.  We 
can  distribute  books,  and  talk  to  the  people  about 
religion,  whenever  we  wish ;  and  what  more  need 
we  now  desire  than  men  and  women,  whose 
hearts  are  glowing  with  love  to  the  Saviour,  and 
to  the  souls  of  their  fellow-men,  to  assist  us  in 
this  glorious,  this  delightful  work? 

There  is  a  village  near  to  us,  which  contains 
about  ten  houses,  and  about  sixty  souls.  I  visit 
it,  regularly,  two  or  three  times  a  week.  Mrs. 
King  accompanies  me.  She  speaks  Chinese 
tolerably,  and  we  generally  talk  to  the  females 
about  their  children,  and  ask  them  all  man- 
ner of  questions  about  their  domestic  concerns, 
&c.,  hoping  that,  by  and  by,  we  shall  gain  their 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      143 

confidence  and  affection,  and  then  be  able  to  call 
their  attention  to  better  things.  It  has  been  only 
a  short  time  since  we  adopted  this  plan  ;  as  yet,  we 
have  not  spoken  to  them  on  the  subject  of  religion. 
Should  we  visit  a  family  for  the  first  time,  and 
immediately  commence  speaking  to  them  on  the 
subject  of  religion,  and  tell  them  that  it  is  very 
sinful  to  worship  idols,  we  should  meet  with  a 
cold  reception ;  but  by  visiting  them  a  few  times, 
making  their  children  a  present  occasionally,  and 
conversing  with  them  in  a  friendly  manner,  we 
may  gain  their  esteem,  and  they  will  believe  what 
we  say  to  them  of  the  true  God  more  readily  than 
they  would  have  done  at  first.  I  was  much  de- 
lighted at  our  last  evening's  visit.  The  women 
were  truly  polite  and  kind  to  us,  asked  us  a  great 
many  questions,  gave  us  tea  to  drink,  and  cigars 
to  smoke,  (as  is  their  custom,)  and  when  we  were 
about  to  leave,  one  woman  said,  as  it  was  nearly 
dark,  she  would  walk  home  with  us,  and  did  so. 
I  think  it  likely  I  shall  be  able  to  induce  some  of 
them  to  let  their  daughters  come  to  my  school. 
There  are  many  good  things  to  be  gained  by  thus 
visiting  these  poor  females.  We  see  them  at 
home,  and  can  penetrate  more  "deeply  into  their 
characters.  We  also  learn  to  speak  their  lan- 
guage as  they  do. 

Mr.  Shuck  preaches  in  Chinese  every  -Sabbath. 
At  present  his  congregation  is  very  small,  consist- 
ing of  not  more  than  fifteen  persons ;  but  doubt- 
less it  will  enlarge  after  a  while.  His  text  last 
Sunday  was  John  xiv.  6.  He  feels  greatly  en- 
couraged in  his  efforts  to  make  known  to  this 
idolatrous  race  the  blessed  truths  of  the  gospel. 
Remember  us,  ray  dear  pa',  whenever  you  pray 


144  MEMOIH    OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

—  remember,  too,  the  perishing  Chinese.  I  hope 
you  continue  to  hold  the  monthly  concert  at  Kil- 
marnock.  Is  it  well  attended?  Do  the  friends 
in  Lancaster  manifest  much  interest  in  the  cause 
of  missions  ? " 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"  ACCOST  4,  1839. 

I  wrote  a  hasty  letter  to  my  dear  pa'  a  few 
weeks  ago,  in  which  I  said  something  about  our 
anticipated  trip  to  Hong  Kong.  We  all  (your 
dear  brother,  Lewis,  Ryland,  and  myself)  em- 
barked on  board  the  Scaleby  Castle,  a  ship  of 
fourteen  hundred  tons,  and  had  a  most  delightful 
passage  up.  We  remained  at  Hong  Kong  about 
one  week,  were  greatly  benefited  by  a  change  of 
air,  and  returned  to  our  happy  home  and  pleasant 
labors.  Hong  Kong  is,  indeed,  a  most  romantic 
spot,  and  said  to  be  the  finest  harbor  in  the  world. 
There  were  forty-five  square-rigged  vessels  an- 
chored in  different  directions,  during  the  time  we 
were  there,  which  presented  a  lovely  aspect.  The 
lofty  and  green  covered  hills  surrounded  us  on 
all  sides.  I  could  willingly  have  remained  a 
month,  but  duties,  too  important  to  be  neglected, 
called  us  home." 

To  her  Father. 

"  AUGUST  20,  1839. 

My  dear  pa',  you  allude  to  our  '  parting  scene' 
in  your  letter.  O!  how  frequently  do  I  medi- 
tate on  that  day,  that  hour,  that  last  hour,  which 
I  spent  with  you,  my  fond  father !  Time  serves 
only  to  increase  my  love  to  my  friends.  I  love 
you  all  better,  if  possible,  than  when  I  enjoyed 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      145 

your  society.  What  would  I  not  give  just  to  be 
in  your  midst  for  one  hour,  to  see  those  faces, 
and  hear  those  voices,  which  are  still  dear  to  me ! 
You  say,  if  it  were  right,  you  should  '  rejoice  to 
hear  that  we  were  on  our  way  back  ;  but  it  is 
not  right.'  No,  my  dear  pa',  we  have  willingly 
given  up  the  pleasure  of  our  home  and  kindred, 
that  we  may  add  our  mite  towards  ihe  evangeli- 
zation of  China ;  then  let  us  not  faint  or  tire. 
It  is  not  impossible,  indeed  I  sometimes  think  it 
quite  probable,  that  we  shall  once  more  meet  even 
in  this  world.  Should  our  lives  be  spared,  and 
those  of  our  children,  we  may  send  or  take  them 
to  America  in  1844 ;  but  what,  and  how  many 
changes'will  have  taken  place  in  the  mean  time ! 
You  may  be  no  more,  or  /  may  lie  in  my  peace- 
ful grave.  I  rejoice  to  commit  my  all  to  the  care 
of  my  Saviour.  He  will  direct  our  path,  if  we 
commit  our  ways  to  him.  But  perhaps  you  would 
better  say  nothing  of  this  matter  out  of  our  fami- 
ly. We  should  not  do  it  without  the  consent  of 
the  Board. 

At  this  time  there  are  great  difficulties  with 
the  English  residents  here,  in  consequence  of  the 
murder  of  a  Chinese  at  Hong  Kong.  The  com- 
missioner, Lin,  has  deprived  them  of  their  ser- 
vants, and  has  forbid  any  Chinese  to  sell  provis- 
ions, or  any  thing  else,  to  the  English.  The 
Americans,  and  other  foreigners,  are  not  to  be 
molested.  However,  our  servants  are  all  alarmed ; 
and  if  they  leave  us,  I  shall  not  be  disappointed. 
I  think  by  dividing  we  can  perform  our  domestic 
labors  for  a  little  while.  How  these  difficulties 
do  rejoice  my  heart !  because  I  think  the  English 
government  may  be  enraged,  and  God,  in  his 
13 


146  MEMOIR    OP    MRS.    SHUCK. 

power,  may  break  down  the  barriers  which  pro- 
vent  the  gospel  of  Christ  from  entering  China." 

The  above  letter  seems  to  be  almost  prophetic 
Stating  the  changes  which  might  prevent  her 
visit  to  America  in  the  year  1844,  she  says,  "  I 
may  lie  in  my  peaceful  grave."  The  word  "/" 
was  underscored  by  her  own  hand.  In  that  year, 
as  the  sequel  will  show,  to  her  joy  and  the  grief 
of  her  friends,  she  found  a  home  in  her  "  peace- 
ful grave."  The  difficulties  between  the  English 
and  Chinese,  which  had  then  begun  to  show 
themselves,  resulted,  by  the  power  and  blessing  of 
the  God  of  missions,  according  to  her  joyful  an- 
ticipation, in  breaking  "  down  the  barriers  which 
prevented  the  gospel  of  Christ  from  entering 
China." 

To  her  Father. 

"  Nov.  3,  1839. 

The  Talbot  is  hourly  expected  to  depart  for  the 
United  States,  and  I  cannot  bear  to  have  her  go 
without  taking  a  line  from  me  to  you.  When  I 
first  heard  that  she  would  sail  in  a  few  weeks,  I 
resolved  to  write  a  great  many  letters ;  but  we 
plan,  and  God  thwarts.  For  some  days  I  have 
been  too  much  indisposed  to  write,  or  to  do  any 
thing  but  loll  listlessly  about.  Even  now  I  am 
quite  ill.  My  physician  pronounces  my  case  to 
be  liver  complaint,  which,  you  know,  is  a  distress- 
ing and  even  dangerous  disease ;  but  this  morn- 
ing, as  he  (Dr.  Anderson)  left  me,  he  said,  '  You 
look  a  little  better,  and  I  shall,  I  trust,  be  able  to 
restore  you.'  My  diet  is  to  consist  of  nothing 
but  toast  and  tea,  and  a  little  fowl  broth,  for  a 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      147 

long  time  to  come.  Dear  father,  don't  be  dis- 
tressed. I  am  in  good  earthly  hands,  and  above 
all,  I  am  in  my  heavenly  Father's  care.  It  may 
be  his  design  to  give  me  some  suffering,  and  then 
take  me  home.  If  so,  I  am  willing  to  go.  I  am 
happy  in  the  thought  of  being  with  Christ.  Pray 
that  I  may  have  strength  from  on  high  to  support 
me  in  every  scene  through  which  I  am  to  pass. 
Death  has  been  very  familiar  to  me  la'tely.  Miss 
Orton,  a  young  lady  who  came  to  reside  with  me 
some  time  ago,  has  just  departed  this  life.  She 
was,  I  trust,  through  my  instrumentality,  con- 
verted on  her  dying  bed.  Glory  to  God,  that  I 
have,  as  I  trust,  done  some  good !  The  praise  be 
entirely  "to  Him.  I  will  write  soon  again,  and 
tell  you  how  I  get  on.  Perhaps  I  may  have  to 
go  to  sea.  If  so,  we  shall  go  to  Singapore  or 
Manilla,  just  for  a  change  of  air.  I  beg  you  will 
not  give  yourself  any  uneasiness  for  me.  You 
know  the  liver  disease  can  be  cured,  if  God 
designs  it.  Mr.  S.  and  the  boys  are  quite  well. 
The  winter  is  now  at  hand,  and  we  shall  all 
doubtless  improve  by  it.  My  best  love  to  ma', 
and  the  girls  and  boys.  I  would  write  more,  but 
in  justice  to  myself,  my  family,  and  the  heathen, 
I  conclude.  Writing  only  aggravates  the  disease. 
Excuse  all  mistakes, 

And  believe  me  ever  your  devoted  daughter, 
HENRIETTA  H.  SHUCK." 


(  148  ) 


CHAPTER  VIII. 


1840 —  Mrs.  Shuck's  Health  bad  —  Her  Correspondence  continued  — 
Dr.  Diver's  Letter  concerning  her  Sickness — War  anticipated  — 
Letter  from  Mrs.  S.  to  her  Sister  Susan  —  Resignation  —  Dr.  Diver** 
second  Letter — Mrs.  .Slmok's  improving  Health  —  Her  Piety  — 
Cost  of  Living —  She  loves  the  Concert  of  Prayer  for  Missions  — 
Letter  to  Isabella  —  Fervent  Exhortation  —  Resolutions —  Arrival 
of  the  British  Fleet — Isabella's  Con  version  —  Susan's  Marriage  — 
Her  Grandpapa's  Death  —  Good  Advice  to  Isabella — Pleasing 
Anticipations. 

THE  beginning  of  the  year  1840  found  Mrs. 
Shuck  in  very  delicate  health.  Her  life  had  been 
almost  despaired  of;  but  the  great  Physician,  in 
kindness  to  the  mission  and  the  heathen,  had  re- 
buked the  violence  of  her  disease.  Her  health 
was  gradually  improving.  The  affliction  seems  to 
have  been,  in  a  remarkable  degree,  sanctified  to 
her  spiritual  prosperity.  Her  letters  of  this  period 
breathe  a  spirit  of  confidence  in  God,  resignation 
to  his  will,  and  devotion  to  the  work  of  missions. 
Far  from  her  native  land,  and  the  fond  friends  of 
her  youth,  in  a  country  of  heathenism,  among 
comparative  strangers,  in  poor  health,  with  the 
prospect  of  early  separation  from  her  devoted  hus- 
band and  dear  children,  she  is  cairn,  cheerful,  full 
of  hope,  waiting,  without  alarm,  the  issue  of  her 
disease.  It  is  an  instructive  example.  How 
keenly,  and  yet  how  pathetically,  does  it  reprove 
the  discontent  and  murmuring  of  those  who  are 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.       149 

encompassed  by  kindred  and  friends,  and  all  the 
privileges  of  a  Christian  country !  But  we  may 
best  learn  the  state  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  mind  from 
her  epistolary  correspondence. 

To  her  Father. 

»FKB.  8,  1840. 

My  very  dear  Father, 

At  the  same  time  this  reaches  you,  you  will 
most  likely  receive  a  communication  from  our 
young  friend,  Dr.  Diver,  respecting  the  state  of 
my  health,  and  the  probability  that  we  shall  be 
compelled  to  visit  our  native  land.  While  it 
would  delight  me  to  see  once  more  my  father  and 
friends,  yet  it  is  a  source  of  great  grief,  both  to 
my  dear  husband  and  myself,  that  we  may  possi- 
bly be  obliged  to  quit  our  field  of  labor,  even  for 
two  years.  The  thought  is  any  thing  but  pleas- 
ant. Since  I  wrote  last  to  the  family,  I  have  had 
another  attack,  which,  however,  was  less  serious 
than  the  former  ones,  and  I  trust,  as  I  am  again 
convalescent,  that  by  extreme  caution  on  my  part, 
I  may  drag  on  till  1844.  It  is  our  intention,  the 
Lord  willing,  if  I  get  worse  as  summer  approaches, 
to  take  a  trip  to  sea  for  a  week  or  fortnight. 
Manilla  is  only  a  few  days'  sail  from  this,  and  the 
voyage  might  be  of  great  benefit  to  me.  The 
letter  written  by  Dr.  Diver  is  strictly  true.  He 
takes  a  great  interest  in  all  that  concerns  us. 
Since  he  has  been  in  Macao,  he  has  attended  me 
professionally,  and  I  can  truly  say  that  for  kind- 
ness and  tenderness  at  a  sick  bed  I  have  never 
seen  one  that  surpassed  him.  To  the  skill  of  a 
physician  he  unites  the  affection  of  a  brother. 

Dr.  A.,  who  still  visits  roe  is  as  kind  as  ever. 
13* 


160  MEMOIR  OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

He  is  suffering  with  the  liver  complaint;  is  very 
feeble,  and,  I  fear,  cannot  long  endure  this  cli- 
mate. The  other  day,  when  he  called,  I  said  to 
him, '  You  are  looking  ill,  Dr.  A.  I  think  you  will 
have  to  go  home.'  When  he  immediately  said, 
'  Ah,  Mrs.  Shuck,  I  cannot  go  home :  I  have  not 
made  money  enough  yet;  I  shall  stay  and  die 
here.'  The  thought  then  struck  me  —  Here  is  a 
man  with  the  same  disease  that  I  am  afflicted 
with,  begging  me  to  go  home,  and  telling  me  I 
cannot  live  here;  and  yet  he  can  stay.  His  ob- 
ject is  to  make  money,  and  mine,  I  trust,  to  win 
souls  to  Christ.  Whose  stay,  then,  is  most  impor- 
tant? I  have  fully  determined,  dearest  father,  to 
remain  in  China  as  long  as  I  possibly  can.  If  I 
do  visit  the  United  States,  it  shall  be  my  last  re- 
sort. Meanwhile  I  hope  to  hear  from  you  and 
the  Board  on  the  subject,  and  if  you  both  advise 
a  visit  home,  then  I  shall  feel  more  happy  in  tak- 
ing it. 

Things  in  China  are  wearing  the  same  aspect 
as  when  we  last  wrote.  I  think  it  is  altogether 
reasonable  to  expect  war. 

My  dear  pa',  I  would  not  have  you  entertain 
any  hope  of  ever  seeing  me  again.  I  feel  that  I 
may  be  called  away  at  any  hour ;  and,  I  trust,  I 
am  willing  to  go.  My  ties  here  are  great ;  but, 
blessed  be  God,  I  can  leave  all  to  Him.  He  will 
never  leave  nor  forsake  me." 

The  following  extract  is  from  the  letter  of  Dr. 
Diver  to  Rev.  A.  Hall,  referred  to  in  Mrs.  Shuck's 
letter.  The  Dr.  was  an  American  missionary  in 
Macao,  under  the  patronage  of  the  American 
Board  of  Commissioners  for  Foreign  Missions. 


DR.    DIVER'S    LETTER.  151 

Extract  of  a  Letter  from  Dr.  Diver  to  Rev.  A.  Hall. 

"FEBRUARY,  1840. 
Dear  Sir, 

As  we  are  brethren  in  the  Lord  Jesus,  inter- 
ested in  the  advancement  and  glory  of  the  same 
kingdom,  allow  me,  though  a  stranger,  to  address 
you  from  these  distant  shores.  After  a  passage 
of  140  days  from  New  York,  during  which  I  ex- 
perienced the  bountiful  goodness  of  God,  I  arrived 
at  Macao  on  the  27th  of  September  last;  and 
soon  had  the  pleasure  of  being  acquainted  with 
your  son  and  daughter,  missionaries  under  the 
patronage  of  the  Baptist  Board,  assiduously  en- 
gaged in  the  study  of  the  Chinese  language,  and 
in  doing  good,  as  their  hands  found  it  to  do. 
Before  I  could  well  survey  my  new  quarters,  I 
began  to  experience  from  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shuck 
evidences  of  their  Christian  regard  and  affection. 
But  soon  I  was  called  upon  to  make  a  return  in  a 
manner  which  I  could  by  no  means  prefer.  I 
was  called  to  see  Mrs.  Shuck,  whom  I  found  in  a 
state  of  delirium,  occasioned  by  an  excessive  flow 
of  blood  to  the  brain,  which,  I  afterwards  learned, 
was  brought  on  by  too  great  exertion  during  the 
heat  of  the  day." 

The  Dr.  gives  a  minute  description  of  her 
symptoms,  the  various  remedies  employed  for  her 
relief,  the  progress  of  the  disease,  and  the  alterna- 
tions of  hope  and  fear,  which  we  need  not  record. 
He  then  proceeds  :  — 

"  I  have  thus  given  you,  dear  sir,  a  full,  and,  I 
trust,  a  faithful  account  of  Mrs.  Shuck'*  illness, 
which  I  think  I  am  bound  to  do.  This  is  not  the 
first  attack;  she  has  had  several  of  a  like  dan- 
gerous character  since  she  came  to  the  East.  I 


152  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

cannot  but  think  that  another  such  attack  would 
in  all  probability,  terminate  her  earthly  existence ; 
her  constitution,  naturally  weak,  is  being  broken 
and  undermined  by  their  frequency  and  severity, 
which,  humanly  speaking,  cannot  be  averted  here. 
I  am  strongly  inclined  to  believe  that  nothing  but 
a  visit  to  the  United  States  will  invigorate  Hen- 
rietta's constitution,  or  restore  her  to  a  compara- 
tive state  of  health.  This  conviction  has  arisen 
from  a  careful  study  of  the  predisposing  and  ex- 
citing causes,  and  I  assure  you,  dear  sir,  the 
expression  of  it  to  you,  and  to  the  Baptist  Board, 
is  elicited  by  a  deep  and  sincere  wish  for  the  wel- 
fare of  your  affectionate  daughter. 

Allow  me  here  to  say,  that  in  Mrs.  Shuck  the 
Baptist  Board  of  Missions  have  a  devoted  mis- 
sionary, and  the  gospel  of  Jesus  Christ  an  ardent 
and  faithful  advocate  among  the  Chinese.  In 
conclusion,  I  would  express  my  decided  convic- 
tion that  hostilities  between  China  and  Britain 
are  inevitable,  and  cannot  be  far  in  the  future. 

I  am  most  truly  yours  in  gospel  bonds, 

WM.  B.  DIVER," 

To  her  Sister  Susan, 

"APRIL  26,  1840. 

Dear  Susan,  I  trust  that  my  life  has  been  pro- 
longed that  I  may  devote  it  the  more  unreserv- 
edly to  the  cause  of  Christ.  I  have  been  on  the 
borders  of  the  grave ;  but,  blessed  be  the  Lord,  I 
have  ever  felt  a  peace  of  mind  which  indeed 
passed  all  understanding.  The  thought  of  leav- 
ing my  beloved  Lewis  without  a  wife,  and  my 
darling  children  without  a  mother,  in  this  un- 
friendly world,  was,  indeed,  painful;  but,  on 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      153 

the  other  hand,  the  thought  of  being  with  my 
Saviour,  where  I  should  be  perfectly  freed  from 
sin,  outweighed  every  wish  to  remain  longer  in 
this  tenement  of  clay.  One  evening,  I  remember 
well,  I  was  quite  free  fronrpain,  but  so  exhausted 
that  it  was  difficult  for  me  to  speak.  My  fond 
husband,  who,  when  I  am  ill,  is  ever  near  me,  and 
dear,  kind  Dr.  Diver,  were  standing  beside  me, 
as  I  thought,  expecting  to  see  me  soon  depart. 
Their  countenances  seemed  to  say,  '  Farewell.' 
I  felt  that  I  was  almost  gone.  Yes,  it  appeared 
that  my  spirit  was  about  entering  the  paradise  of 
God  ;  when  suddenly  I  revived,  my  strength 
increased,  and,  O,  how  disappointed  I  was  to 
return  ag'ain  to  this  sinful  state !  But  knowing 
that  I  ought  not  to  indulge  such  feelings,  I  en- 
deavored to  check  them.  It  is  a  privilege  to  lie 
on  a  oed  of  pain,  to  enjoy  such  rapture;  and 

'  If  Mich  the  sweetness  of  the  streams, 
What  will  the  fountain  be?' 

I  believe  that  the  feeling  of  perfect  submission  to 
the  will  of  our  heavenly  Father  is  the  most 
becoming  that  the  human  heart  can  indulge.  I 
desire,  therefore,  to  have  my  will  and  inclinations 
perfectly  swallowed  up  in  his.  'Tis  sweet  to 
know  that  all  he  does  is  best  for  our  own  good, 
and  for  his  glory.  I  think  I  can  bless  the  Lord 
more  for  the  affliction  of  body,  which,  in  his 
infinite  wisdom,  he  has  been  pleased  to  send  upon 
me,  than  for  any  thing  else  that  I  have  received 
at  his  hand.  It  has  been  blessed  to  my  eternal 
good ;  it  has  led  me  to  lean  on  him,  not  on  my- 
self; it  has  caused  me  to  repose  in  him.  as  a  ten- 
der Father,  who  afflicts  not  willingly  " 


154  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

The  subjoined  letter  from  Dr.  Diver  to  Rev.  A. 
Hall,  communicated  the  pleasing  intelligence  of 
his  daughter's  improved  health  and  increasing 
piety.  We  give  the  letter  entire. 

"  MACAO,  APRIL  28,  1840. 

My  dear  Sir, 

Again  I  take  the  liberty  of  addressing  you. 
Were  it  not  for  the  belief  that  the  subject  lies 
near  your  heart,  I  would  withhold  my  pen ;  but 
convinced  that  the  tidings  of  your  daughter's 
health  and  welfare  must,  at  all  times,  be  most  wel- 
come to  you,  I  am  encouraged  to  pen  these  lines. 

When  the  letter  was  written  you,  which  is  now, 
perhaps,  on  its  way  to  America,  we  were  suffer- 
ing under  the  most  fearful  forebodings  of  Mrs. 
Shuck's  future  health,  and  I  little  expected  %p  be 
able  to  say  what  I  now  write  you.  It  may  in 
truth  be  said,  now, 

'  God  moves  in  a  mysterious  way, 
His  wonders  to  perform.' 

Henrietta  appears  now  to  enjoy  better  health  than 
she  has  at  any  previous  time  since  her  arrival  in 
the  East.  Though  she  has  been  subjected,  within 
a  month  or  six  weeks  past,  to  occasional  attacks 
of  illness,  they  have  not  been  of  the  serious 
description  which  excited  in  our  breasts  those 
fearful  apprehensions,  and  that  painful  solicitude, 
which  were  once  awakened.  Yes,  my  dear  sir, 
I  am  happy  to  inform  you,  that  your  daughter 
appears  wholly  free  from  organic  disease,  and 
complains  of  nothing.  The  hope  has  sometimes 
been  kindled  in  my  breast,  that  she  would,  at  some 
far  distant  period,  when  restored,  in  the  providence 


DR.    DIVER'S    SECOND    LETTER.  155 

of  God,  to  her  home,  be  partially  relieved  of  the 
complaint  which  was  wasting  her  vital  energies; 
but  my  highest  anticipations  have  been  more  than 
realized.  By  the  blessing  of  God  upon  the 
means  employed,  the  power  of  her  disease  has 
been  subdued.  The  use  of  mercury  twice  to 
slight  salivation,  the  introduction  of  a  seton  in 
the  side,  and  constant,  untiring  attention  to  every 
symptom,  have  been  effectual  in  bringing  about 
this  salutary  change.  The  organ  chiefly  affected 
—  the  liver  —  is  now,  I  believe,  wholly  free  from 
inflammation,  or  derangement  of  any  kind,  func- 
tional or  organic  ;  and  the  absence  of  headache, 
derangement  of  the  stomach  and  bowels,  coldness 
of  the  hands  and  feet,  fever  and  thirst,  encourage 
us  to  believe  that  her  constitution  will  be  strength- 
ened, and  the  powers  of  her  system  invigorated. 
We  are  led  to  hope  that  our  dear  sister  will  live 
to  be  useful  among  the  dying  heathen ;  that  she 
will  yet  spend  many  years  in  the  cause  to  which 
she  has  most  unreservedly  devoted  her  '  soul,  her 
life,  her  all.' 

I  know  it  would  afford  the  heart  of  an  affec- 
tionate father  sincere  pleasure  to  hear  of  his 
daughter's  perfect  restoration  to  health  ;  but  such 
a  hope  I  would  not  encourage  you  to  entertain. 
Let  us,  however,  rejoice  before  the  Lord  most 
merciful,  and  give  thanks,  that  in  answer  to  hum- 
ble, fervent,  believing  prayer,  such  a  measure  of 
health  and  strength  has  been  restored  to  the 
afflicted  one,  as  enables  her  to  perform,  with  pleas- 
ure to  herself  and  those  around  her,  the  various 
duties,  social  and  domestic,  which  devolve  upon 
her. 

Above  all  things,  it  affords  me   inexpressible 


156  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

joy  to  be  able  to  say  that  the  afflictive  dispensa- 
tions of  God's  hand  have  been  abundantly  blessed 
and  sanctified  to  her  soul.  Oft,  when  sitting  by 
her  bedside,  have  I  listened  with  pleasure  to  the 
expressions  of  trust  and  confidence  in  her  Re- 
deemer, which  fell  from  her  lips;  or,  when  the 
last  ray  of  hope  for  this  life  was  almost  extin- 
guished, witnessed  in  her  eye  the  rapturous 
anticipation  of  a  glorious  immortality.  When 
bending  over  her  emaciated  form,  I  caught  the 
faint  whisper  —  'Jesus,  precious  Saviour,  when 
shall  I  be  with  thee!'  O!  I  have  felt  as  if 
heaven  itself  was  open ;  a  solemn  awe  has  filled 
my  soul ;  and  I  thought  it  a  privilege  to  be  there ; 
it  seemed  like  hallowed  ground. 

The  most  prominent  grace  manifested  in  Hen- 
rietta's late  illness  was  patience.  When  the  body 
was  racked  with  long-continued,  agonizing  pains, 
apparently  baffling  our  efforts  to  procure  relief, 
we  have  rejoiced  and  been  encouraged  by  hear- 
ing her  say,  at  intervals, 

'  Sweet  to  lie  passive  in  lii  •  arms, 
And  know  no  will  bat  his.' 

O,  what  a  school  of  moral  instruction  is  the 
sick-chamber !  There !  there  !  may  be  seen  an 
exemplification  of  the  power  of  religion.  There, 
where  the  disciple  of  Jesus  languishes,  may  the 
inquirer  find  a  solution  to  his  doubts,  and  see  a 
fulfilment  of  the  promises  —  '  My  grace  is  sufficient 
for  thee,'  and  '  As  thy  day  is,  so  shall  thy 
strength  be.'  '  Thanks  be  to  God,  who  giveth  us 
the  victory  through  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ.' " 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      157 

To  her  Father. 

"  APRIL,  1840. 

As  to  political  affairs  in  China,  they  are 
about  as  when  we  last  wrote.  We  are  in  daily 
expectation  of  the  arrival  of  the  fleet,  and  we 
trust  that  a  better  state  of  things  will  soon  exist 
here.  War  will,  in  my  opinion,  certainly  ensue; 
but  we  know  that  God  can  overrule  all  things  for 
his  glory,  and  cause  even  the  wrath  of  man  to 
praise  him.  I  fear  there  will  be  much  suffering 
felt  among  the  poorer  classes  of  Chinese.  We 
anticipate  an  enormous  price  on  provisions,  and 
we  may  in  consequence  have  to  leave  for  Manilla, 
or  some  adjacent  spot,  for  a  time,  as  our  salary  is 
scarcely 'sufficient  to  support  us  now.  Indeed,  it 
would  not  be  sufficient,  but  I  have  two  or  three 
spare  rooms,  and  accommodate  a  friend,  now  and 
then,  who  pays  for  his  room  and  food.  Mr. 
Roberts  lives  with  us,  and  as  we  mess  together, 
we  get  on  more  cheaply.  I  am  quite  a  good 
economist." 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"  MAY  4,  1840. 

Have  just  returned  from  the  monthly  con- 
cert held  at  Mr.  Brown's.  If  I  enjoy  any  meet- 
ings more  than  others,  they  are  the  monthly  con- 
certs. Then  we  meet  particularly  to  pour  out 
our  petitions  in  behalf  of  the  object  to  which  our 
lives  are  dedicated ;  and  we  know  that  all  over 
the  world,  where  a  band  of  Christ's  disciples  can 
meet,  they  are  found  assembled  within  the  same 
twenty-four  hours,  for  the  purpose  of  seeking  the 
same  blessing.  Prayer  then,  like  a  volume  of 
holy  incense,  arises  to  Jehovah's  throne.  I  do  so 
14 


158  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHOCK. 

love  to  feel  that  others  are  praying  for  me ;  my 
father,  mother,  sister,  all  my  Christian  friends. 
It  is  indeed  a  privilege  to  be  thus  remembered  by 
pious  hearts." 

To  her  Sister  babella. 

"  APRIL  28,  1840. 

Dearest  Bell,  as  long  as  you  continue  away 
from  the  fold  of  Christ,  I  shall  feel  like  writ- 
ing nothing  to  you  but  urgent  requests  to 
seek  refuge  in  that  fold.  It  is  my  chief  distress 
to  know  that  you  are  not  at  peace  with  God.  I 
pray  for  you  every  day  :  often  the  list  wakeful 
breath  at  night  is  wafted  in  prayer  for  my  dear 
Isabella;  and  the  first  thought  in  the  morning  is 
still  concerning  the  interests  of  her  never-dying 
spirit.  Midnight  and  midday,  yea,  all  hours  wit- 
ness rny  tender  and  anxious  solicitude  for  you. 
Why  is  it,  my  Isabella,  that  you  still  refuse  to 
yield  the  affections  of  your  heart,  Hnd  the  service 
of  your  life,  to  the  Redeemer  of  mankind?  In- 
deed, it  seems  to  me  that  I  h:ive  in  former  letters 
said  all  that  I  could  to  induce  you  to  seek  the 
Saviour.  Religion  has  attractions,  dear  sister, 
though  it  may  not  appear  to  you  to  have.  It  will 
afford  you  more  solid  peice  of  mind  than  you 
can  now  conceive.  Those  gay  amusements 
which  so  delight  you  now,  can  only  continue  a 
short  time  longer  —  yes,  they  must  pass  aw;iy  with 
this  fleeting  world;  but  the  religion  of  Jesus  will 
ever  cause  the  heart  to  expand  with  holy  delight. 
Though  overwhelmed  with  the  ills  of  e:irth,  it 
can  imp.irt  a  peace  of  mind,  a  joy,  which  noth- 
ing else  can  afford  ;  and  the  soul,  tired  of  all  be- 
low, finds,  infinite  happiness  in  contemplating  the 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      159 

period  when  it  shall  awake  in  the  image  of  Je- 
sus, and  bask  in  his  smiles.  Dearest  Bell,  be 
persuaded  to  listen,  at  once  —  now,  to  the  calls  of 
God's  providence  to  you.  which  have  been  many. 
Dear  little  Lucius  was  taken  from  the  embraces 
of  devoted  parents,  and  from  the  affection  of  en- 
deared sisters  and  brothers  for  wise  purposes.  His 
death,  we  trust,  has  been  sanctified  to  our  dear 
Susan  ;  and  will  you,  can  you,  my  sister,  let  it 
pass  by  without  drawing  your  heart  to  the  Sa- 
viour, with  whom  his  precious  spirit  now  dwells? 
You  are  surrounded  by  pious  friends,  who  feel 
much  for  your  salvation — let  their  example  in- 
fluence you  —  let  their  tears,  their  warnings,  be 
no  longer  disregarded.  Loved  Isabella,  the  tears 
start  in  my  eyes,  and  almost  blind  me,  so  full  is 
my  heart.  Listen  to  the  voice  of  your  dear  dis- 
tant sister,  who  loves  you  too  fondly;  listen  to 
your  own  conscience ;  listen  to  the  exhortations  of 
God's  devoted  servants ;  and  be  entreated  to  seek 
the  forgiveness  of  your  sins.  Delay  Vs  dangerous. 
How  anxious  was  our  tender  mother's  heart  for 
the  eternal  welfare  of  her  dear  children  !  How 
frequent  and  earnest  were  her  prayers !  She  is 

S>ne  !  Her  prayers  are  no  longer  offered  for  us. 
er  sainted  spirit  is  with  its  loved  Redeemer. 
What  are  your  feelings  when  you  think  of  an 
eternal  separation  from  that  devoted  mother,  from 
her  who  now  occupies  her  place,  from  our  be- 
loved father,  from  your  sister  Susan,  who  is  now 
the  companion  of  your  joys  and  sorrows,  from  your 
unworthy,  hut  anxious  sister  Henrietta,  and  her 
husband,  from  all  your  pious  friends,  and  especial- 
ly from  the  blessed  Saviour  himself?  O  Isabel- 
la, if  these  things  do  not  move  you,  what  can  ?  1 


160  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

cannot  give  you  up ;  I  cannot  bear  the  thought  of 
a  disunion  from  you  in  eternity.  No,  to  part 
here  is  painful ;  but  can  it  be  compared  to  a  sepa- 
ration in  a  world  which  has  no  end  ?  I  think 
you  will  shed  some  tears  over  this  sheet ;  but  do 
not  let  it  soon  be  laid  by  and  forgotten.  Will 
you  write  me  a  long  letter  in  return,  and  tell  me 
all  your  feelings  on  the  subject  ?  I  know  exactly 
what  you  will  say  after  perusing  this  :  '  O !  sis- 
ter Henrietta  always  writes  me  such  mournful 
letters ! '  They  are  not  mournful,  but  on  the  most 
pleasant  of  subjects;  and  I  must  continue  them 
till  I  hear  better  things  of  you.  I  know  your 
cheerful  disposition  loathes  the  idea  of  being  seri- 
ous and  gloomy ;  but  believe  me,  there  is  nothing 
in  religion  to  make  us  unhappy. 

'() !  why  should  the  heart  of  a  Christian  be  sad, 
Or  his  eye  ever  dim  with  a  tear,' 

except  on  account  of  his  sins  ?  But  my  sheet 
bids  me  stop.-  How  many  sheets  would  I  fill,  if 
it  would  be  of  any  avail !  I  leave  the  subject 
with  you.  My  feeble  prayers  shall  continue  to 
be  wafted  on  high  for  you. 

Love  to  all,  and  from  all.  With  every  kind 
wish  that  prompts  the  heart  of  a  dear  sister, 

Believe  me  yours,  in  much  solicitude, 

HENRIETTA." 

The  following  resolutions,  with  the  remarks 
subjoined,  were  found  among  Mrs.  Shuck's  pa- 
pers after  her  decease.  They  are  entitled  to  a 
place  in  this  Memoir. 

"MAT,  1840. 

1st.  I  will  endeavor  always  to  observe  strictly 
the  golden  rule,  '  To  "do  unto  others  as  I  would 
have  them  do  to  me.' 


HER    RESOLUTIONS.  161 

2d.  I  will  speak  no  ill  of  any  one.  If  I  can 
say  no  good  concerning  persons,  I  will  remain 
silent. 

3d.  I  will  mind  my  own  business,  and  not 
interfere  with  the  concerns  of  others. 

4th.  I  will  pay  particular  attention  to  the  rules 
laid  down  by  my  medical  adviser,  with  regard  to 
diet  and  exercise. 

5th.  My  children  are  given  me  to  train  for 
heaven.  They  shall  have  my  vigilant  attention. 

6th.  The  duty  of  a  wife  is  to  love  and  obey. 
My  husband  shall  find  me  ever  endeavoring  to 
practise  these  duties,  and  shall  receive  from  me  at 
all  times  a  hearty  acquiescence  in  his  wishes. 

7th.  My  duty  to  the  heathen  around  me,  and 
especially  to  the  girls  under  my  care,  shall  be 
strictly  observed. 

8th.  I  will  try  to  exercise  patience  and  self- 
denial. 

9th.  I  will  watch  over  my  temper,  and  endeavor 
to  be  amiable. 

10th.  I  will  love  my  missionary  friends,  and  be 
merciful  and  kind  to  all,  especially  to  the  sick 
and  distressed. 

llth.  I  will  cherish  a  forgiving  spirit,  and  will 
return  good  for  evil. 

12th.  I  will  ever  bear  in  mind  that  I  am  too 
much  inclined  to  be  merry  ;  and  I  will  try  to  abide 
by  the  advice  of  my  sainted  mother,  — '  Be  cheerful 
and  not  frivolous,  and  serious  without  being  sad.' 

These  rules  I  will  pray  over  twice,  at  least, 
every  day.  I  look  to  the  Lord  to  strengthen  me  in 
keeping  them.  Whenever  I  find  I  have  deviated 
from  any  one  of  them,  I  will  note  it  down,  and  there- 
by acquire  the  habit  of  marking  my  own  faults" 
14* 


162  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHtfCK. 

On  the  same  sheet  is  written,  at  a  later  period, 
of  which  there  is  no  date,  the  ensuing  confessions. 

"How  repeatedly  do  I  find  myself  deviating 
from  the  above  rules,  and  especially  the  12th ! 
How  weak  is  human  nature  !  How  impossible 
to  pursue  the  right  path  depending  on  our  own 
strength !  How  very  often  do  my  sinful  inclina- 
tions lead  me  away  from  the  path  of  perfect  recti- 
tude !  How  lamentably  far  from  God  do  I  walk  ! 

0  for  more  holiness,  for  more  faith,  for  more  of 
the  spirit  of  Christ !     I  do  most  sincerely  desire 
to  be  a  holy,  active  Christian,  but,  alas  !  I  find 
that  I  am  far  from  being  such  a  one." 

To  her  Sister  Isabella. 

"MxvS,  1840. 

I  wish  now  to  urge  on  you  the  importance  of 
cultivating  your  intellect.  I  do  hope  that  you 
will  pay  strict  attention  to  your  education,  and 
not  consider  it  completed  when  you  quit  school. 

1  have  learned  more  the   past  two  years  than  I 
ever  did  at  any  school.     I  make  it  a  rule  to  read 
every  good  book  that  comes  in  my  way.     I  am 
reading  one  called  '  Hints  on  Education,1  and  I 
meet  with  many  valuable  thoughts  on  the  educa- 
tion of  my  dear  children.     Mr.  Morrison  has  also 
kindly  lent  me   '  The   Principles  of  Physiology 
applied  to  the  Preservation  of  Health,  and  the  Im- 
provement  of  Physical  and    Mental    Education, 
by  Andrew  Combe,'  which  I  intend  to  peruse,  or 
rather  study,  (for  such  books  should  be  studied,) 
so  soon  as  I  get  through  the  former.     It  is  exceed- 
ingly improving  to  the  young  mind  to  read  much, 
and  digest  well.     You  will  never  regret  having 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      163 

done  so,  when  you  come  out  into  society,  particu- 
larly if  you  should  be  a  missionary's  wife.  Then, 
while  unencumbered  with  the  cares  of  life,  lay 
up  a  good  stock  of  useful  knowledge.  Let  every 
passing  hour  find  you  '  gathering  honey  from 
every  flower.'  Write,  and  write,  and  re-write, 
till  you  RIGHT  your  ideas." 

To  her  Father. 

"JULY  10,  1840. 

The  English  fleet  arrived  a  fortnight  ago,  and 
proceeded  to  Chusan  for  the  purpose,  it  is  sup- 
posed, of  taking  the  island.  We  hope  these  war- 
like times  will  all  be  overruled  by  the  great  Dis- 
poser of  events,  and  that  a  firmer  footing  will  be 
gained  in  the  'Celestial'  land  by  the  heralds  of 
the  cross.  Every  thing  remains  quiet  in  Macao, 
and  we  do  not  fear  it  will  be  otherwise,  as  the 
English  government  does  not  seem  disposed  to 
have  any  thing  to  do  with  Macao.  It  is  our  inten- 
tion to  go  directly  to  the  first  place  taken  by  the 
English,  (the  Lord  willing,)  and  there  to  teach 
the  Chinese,  and,  as  we  trust,  unmolestedly." 

To  her  Sister  Isabella. 

"DEC.  3,  1840. 

Your  last  kind  letter,  my  dear  sister,  found 
me  in  rather  a  weak  state,  and  the  contents  of  it, 
together  with  those  of  others,  almost  overcame 
me.  The  joy  of  your  conversion,  the  surprise 
of  Susan's  unexpected  marriage,  the  death  of  my 
dear  grandpa',  all  together  awakened  feelings 
new  and  peculiar.  How  did  my  heart  rejoice  to 
know  that  you,  for  whom  I  have  long  prayed, 
were  at  last  a  disciple  of  our  blessed  Saviour ; 


164  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

that  you  had  seen  the  folly  of  sin,  resolved  to 
forsake  its  paths,  and  tread,  by  the  help  of  God, 
holier  and  happier  ways!  Dear  Bell,  I  do  rejoice. 
The  greatest  wish  1  had  is  now  granted  rne.  A 
great  burden  has  been  rolled  away  from  my  mind, 
and  I  do,  indeed,  call  upon  my  soul,  and  all  with- 
in me,  to  bless  the  Lord  for  his  loving  kindness ! 
I  recollect  an  expression  of  our  sainted  mother, 
when  I  embraced  religion,  and  was  speaking  to 
her  of  my  feelings.  '  O  my  child,'  said  she, 
'  I  can  never  more  doubt  the  goodness  of  God, 
but  can  trust  him  forever,  and  with  faith  look  for- 
ward to  the  period  when  all  our  family  shall 
dwell  in  heaven.'  I  adopt  it  as  my  own,  and  for 
my  dear  little  brothers  I  cherish  strong  hope. 
The  Lord  will,  I  believe,  incline  their  hearts,  as 
he  has  inclined  ours,  to  love  him,  and  we  '  shall 
all  meet  in  heaven.'  This  is  a  wicked  world. 
The  temptations  to  which  you  will  be  exposed 
are  numerous.  Be  fervent  in  prayer,  constantly 
looking  to  your  Saviour  for  help  and  direction. 
You  are  young.  In  youth,  then,  serve  the  Lord 
with  sincerity.  Give  to  him  your  best  days. 
Aim  at  an  elevated  standard  of  piety.  Keep 
your  heart  right  before  Jehovah ;  and  then  your 
conduct  will  accord  with  it.  I  will  continue  to 
pray  for  you,  that  you  may  grow  in  grace.  You 
are  as  yet  a  babe.  May  you  ever,  in  all  your 
ways,  acknowledge  Christ,  and  be  assured  by  him 
your  paths  shall  be  -directed.  I  know  you  will 
endeavor  to  walk  before  your  brothers  as  one 
professing  godliness.  Let  them  see  for  them- 
selves a  change  in  you.  All  you  can  say  to 
them  will  effect  no  good,  if  they  do  not  perceive 
that  you  feel  and  act  the  Christian." 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      165 

The  following  anticipation,  so  soon  realized,  is 
worthy  to  be  noted.  It  is  from  a  letter  addressed 
by  Mrs.  Shuck  to  her  sister  Susan,  (Mrs.  Critten- 
den,)  under  date  of  December  4,  1840. 

"  Yes,  dear  Susan,  here  we  are  apart  —  here  we 
live  divided  by  stormy  seas ;  but  by  and  by  we 
shall  re-unite  in  heaven,  together  to  sing  the 
praises  of  Him,  whom  on  earth  we  would  serve 
and  honor  " 


(  166  ) 


CHAPTER    IX. 

1841  —  Remarks  on  Mrs.  Shuck's  Sickness  and  Recovery  —  Her  School 

—  War  between  England  and  China —  Prospect  of  preaching  the 
Gospel  without  Molestation  —  Chinese  Teacher  a  huprt'iil  Inquir- 
er—  Let'.-r  to  Robert,  simple  and  affectionate  —  Mr*.  Shuck's  So- 
licitude and  Efforts  for  the  Salvation  of  her  .SI.-UT-  and  lirothem  — 
Remarks  on  the  Marriage  of  her  Sisters — A  Box  of  Presents  — 
Birth  df  her  Daughter,  Henrietta  Layton —  Reasons  for  the  Name 

—  Friends  in  Macao  —  Contrast  between  China  and  Lancaster. 

IN  the  commencement  of  the  year  1840,  Mrs. 
Shuck  was  apprehensive  that  she  would  soon  be 
compelled  to  leave  China,  and,  perhaps,  return  to 
America,  to  restore  her  feeble  and  declining 
health.  She  contemplated  a  visit  to  her  native 
land  —  though,  in  many  respects,  it  would  have 
been  exceedingly  pleasant — with  painful  emo- 
tions. The  truth  is,  her  heart  was  set  wholly  on  the 
cause  of  missions.  For  this  she  lived,  and  toiled, 
and  prayed,  and  cheerfully  suffered.  To  be  di- 
verted from  her  appropriate  work,  even  to  visit 
the  father  whom  she  so  deeply  venerated,  and  the 
sisters  and  brothers  whom  she  so  devotedly  loved, 
was  by  her  felt  to  be  an  affliction.  It  was  only 
as  the  "last  resort"  that  she  could  consent  to  re- 
turn to  the  United  States.  From  the  pain  of 
quitting  her  field  of  labor  God  mercifully  spared 
her.  Contrary  to  the  expectations  of  her  friends 
and  physicians,  her  disease  yielded  to  the  reme- 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      167 

dies  employed  ;  and  she  gradually  and  slowly,  by 
the  observance  of  a  strict  regimen,  regained  a 
cornfortible  measure  of  health.  With  fresh  ardor 
and  augmented  faith,  she  devoted  herself  to  the 
duties  of  her  station.  In  the  discharge  of  these 
duties,  she  was  found  in  the  beginning  of  the 
year  1841.  Let  us  prepare  to  follow  her  through 
another  brief  year  of  her  life,  now  rapidly  drawing 
to  its  close. 

To  Mrs.  Keeling. 

«JAN.  9,  1841. 

My  general  health  is  much  better  than  it  was 
when  I  last  wrote.  I  have  had  scarcely  any 
symptom's  of  liver  disease  for  the  last  six  months; 
and  I  have  every  encouragement  to  hope  that  the 
means  which  have  been  used  to  repel  that  disease 
have  been  blessed ;  and  truly  do  I  desire  to  as- 
cribe to  my  kind  Protector  all  the  praise.  This 
time  last  winter,  the  doctors  were  urging  me  to 
try  a  change  of  climate,  and  I  had  well  nigh  con- 
cluded that  I  must  die,  or  leave  Macao  for  a  sea- 
son. However,  God,  in  his  kindness,  has  restored 
me :  and,  I  trust,  yet  to  spend  many  happy  years 
of  toil  in  this  land  of  darkness. 

My  little  school  prospers.  The  girls  improve 
much,  both  mentally  and  morally ;  and  I  have 
great  encouragement  to  persevere  in  teaching. 
Jane  Maria  reads  very  well,  and  improves  aston- 
ishingly in  writing.  I  hope  she  will  soon  be  able 
to  write  you  a  letter.  Akae  is  still  with  me,  and 
proves  a  valuable  assistant  in  teaching  the  younger 
children.  At  family  prayers  we  read  each  two 
verses,  and  they  (Akae  and  Jane)  join  with  us, 
and,  I  am  sure,  read  as  well  as  most  children 


168  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

of  their  ages  in  America.  I  think  much  good 
may  be  accomplished  by  schools,  and  my  desire 
is,  to  spend  the  remainder  of  my  days  in  guiding 
the  youthful  step,  and  enlightening  the  ignorant 
mind  of  our  sex,  in  this  great  land  of  paganism. 
So  little  has  heretofore  been  done  for  the  females, 
that  I  feel  myself  bound  to  exert  my  little  influ- 
ence wholly  on  them.  I  do  not  wish  to  take  into 
my  school  any  boys.  Mr.  S.  would  like,  if  he 
could  have  a  support  guarantied  to  them,  to  take 
four  boys  under  his  special  instruction.  He  will 
not  attempt  any  thing  like  a  large  school,  as  his 
object  is  to  preach  constantly  to  the  people ;  and 
should  there  be  a  door  opened  into  the  empire,  he 
hopes  to  enter  at  once,  and  to  give  all  his  time  to 
this  delightful  employment. 

There  is  every  probability  that  some  part  of 
China  will  be  thrown  open,  as  a  few  days  ago  a 
rupture  took  place  between  the  English  and  Chi- 
nese, and  the  former  took  possession  of  the  Bogue 
Forts.  The  English  lost  but  one  man,  and  twenty 
wounded  in  the  engagement.  We  have  not  heard 
the  loss  of  the  Chinese,  but  it  was  considerable. 
The  fighting  had  not  ceased  when  we  last  had 
accounts ;  and  God  only  knows  when  and  where 
these  warlike  operations  will  end.  O,  may  they 
be  overruled  for  his  glory,  and  for  the  speedy 
entrance  of  his  servants  into  the  country.  Chu- 
san  is  still  held  by  the  English,  and  should  it 
be  the  only  spot  open,  we  expect  to  remove  there 
in  the  course  of  a  few  months.  It  is  thought 
by  some  that  Canton  will  yet  come  under  Eng- 
lish authority ;  and  should  that  be  the  case,  we 
hope  to  remove  there.  We  rejoice  to  commit 
our  ways  entirely  to  Jehovah.  He  will  direct  our 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      169 

paths,  and  we  feel  no  anxiety  as  to  our  future 
course.  All  we  long  for  is  to  be  placed  at  some 
spot,  where,  unmolestedly,  we  can  teach  His  name 
to  the  Chinese,  and  point  them  to  Him  as  their 
only  Saviour. 

At  present,  we  feel  that  we  are  doing  little 
more  than  preparing  to  be  useful.  We  study  the 
language  daily,  and  Mr.  Shuck  preaches  every 
Sabbath  to  a  few  who  assemble  at  our  house,  and 
he  has  a  service  every  Friday  night  with  the  ser- 
vants, who  live  in  our  family.  He  also  goes  fre- 
quently into  the  villages  and  shops,  and  com- 
mends the  Saviour  to  those  who  as  yet  care 
nought  for  him. 

Our  teacher  is  a  fine,  gentlemanly  young  man, 
and  gives  us  reason  to  believe  that  he  is  inquiring 
after  truth.  He  evidently  feels  that  the  worship 
of  idols  is  vain,  and  he  desires  to  become  fully 
acquainted  with  the  doctrine  of  the  Lord  Jesus 
Christ.  Mr.  Shuck  feels  encouraged  in  regard  to 
him,  and  thinks  that  he  is  seriously  impressed. 
He  would  be  an  ornament  to  the  church  were  he 
really  a  lover  of  the  Saviour.  I  have  never  any 
where  seen  a  more  polite,  decent,  and  gentlemanly 
person  than  he  is,  in  every  respect.  Ma.y  God 
turn  his  heart  from  every  false  doctrine,  and 
incline  him  to  serve  him,  and  truly  and  fully  to 
understand  that  there  is  no  other  name  given 
among  men,  by  which  they  can  attain  to  eternal 
life,  but  that  of  Jesus." 

To  her  youngest  Brother. 

"APRIL,  1841. 

My  dear   Bob.     This  address  seems  so  sweet 
and   natural,  that   I  must  still  adopt  it,  though 
15 


170  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

perhaps  you  may  feel  that  note  you  deserve  a 
more  manly  one.  I  often  think  of  you,  my  own, 
sweet  little  brother,  and  as  I  have  written  to  all 
the  older  members  of  the  family,  I  cannot  slight 
you,  and,  therefore,  I  hastily  pen  you  this  scroll, 
to  go  early  to-morrow  morning.  And  what  shall  I 
say  to  you  ?  I  almost  weep,  dear  boy,  yea,  I  do, 
while  I  write,  and  think  of  that  darling  white- 
headed  innocent  one,  whom,  a  few  years  ago, 
it  was  my  privilege  to  take  special  care  of.  You 
always  seemed  dearer  to  me  than  the  rest,  (though 
all  were  dear,)  I  suppose,  because  our  sainted 
mother  died  while  you  were  a  mere  babe,  and  I 
had  you  left  so  helpless  on  my  hands ;  and  I  must 
add  too,  that  you  were  a  good  boy  —  I  sincerely 
hope  the  same  may  be  said  of  you  now.  I  hear 
from  pa'  that  you  are  at  Waverley,  going  to  Miss 
Ann  Gaskins's  school.  Let  me  knoxv  how  you 
like  to  study,  and  whether  you  improve,  and  what 
you  are  learning.  I  trust  you  are  very  polite  and 
respectful  to  your  teacher,  and  attend  to  all  she 
says.  You  must  give  my  love  to  her,  and  say  it 
would  gratify  me  much  to  receive  a  letter  from 
her.  Give  my  love  also  to  all  the  family  at  Indian 
Creek,  old  and  young,  black  and  white,  and 
especially  1o  Henrietta  Maria,  and  'Pug.' 

Your  little  nephews,  Lewis  and  Ryland,  fre- 
quently ask  me  about  you,  and  they  call  you 
'  Uncle  Robert.'  They  teel  very  anxious  to  see 
you  all,  and  say  they  would  like  to  go  to  America, 
'  if  mainm-i  and  papa  will  go  too:'  nothing,  how- 
ever, could  induce  them  to  go  without  us.  They 
are  often  amused,  and  listen  with  delight,  when  I 
tell  them  about  the  fine  fruits,  and  candies,  and 
good  things  in  America,  which  they  have  not  in 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      171 

China.  The  strawberries  especially  attracted 
their  remarks.  Lewis  said,  'O,  if  they  grow, on 
the  ground,  we  could  get  them  ourselves  —  plenty 
of  them,  too.'  The  fruits  we  have  here,  are,  in  my 
opinion,  not  to  be  compared  to  those  with  you; 
but  I  suppose  you  would  think  it  a  great  treat  to 
have  oranges  so  plentiful  as  we  have.  They  are 
just  going  out  of  season,  and  are  selling  at  very 
high  prices;  the  best  being  nearly  one  rait. 

Lewis  and  Ryland  have  three  or  four  goats, 
all  given  them  but  one,  which  we  bought.  They 
have  called  one  '  Bell,'  one  '  Sue,'  and  one 
'  Nanny.'  Bell  is  a  most  spiteful,  greedy  thing, 
and  quarrels  and  fights  with  the  others,  and  tries 
always  fo  keep  them  from  eating,  and  to  secure 
all  the  food  to  herself.  I  trust  the  dear  one  after 
whom  she  is  named  possesses  none  of  these  quali- 
ties. I  know  she  must  have  changed  very  much 
since  I  knew  her,  if  she  does.  Every  morning, 
the  boys  go  with  papa  down  into  the  garden,  and 
feed  them,  and  afterwards  they  are  milked.  They 
have  also  two  turkeys.  I  think  I  told  you  all  how 
expensive  turkeys  are  in  Macao.  They  sell 
sometimes  for  eighteen  dollars  apiece.  Of  course 
we  don't  buy.  Fowls  or  chickens  are  cheap. 

Well,  now,  my  sweet,  darling  little  Bob,  I  must 
ask  you,  if  you  ever  think  about  becoming  a 
Christian.  You  used  to  say  you  would  be  a 
'  Baptist  preacher,'  and  go  to  Burmah.  Do  you 
feel  that  you  desire  to  give  your  heart  to  the 
Saviour?  You  are  young;  but  remember  that  the 
young  as  well  as  the  old  must  die.  Dear  Lucius 
died  much  younger  than  you  are ;  but  I  hope  and 
believe  he  now  lives  with  that  Saviour  of  whom 
he  used  to  talk  so  maturely.  Think,  too,  of  the 


172  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

many  texts  in  the  Bible  addressed  to  the  young  — 
'  Remember  now  thy  Creator  in  the  days  of  thy 
youth.'  '  Those  that  seek  me  early  shall  find 
me.'  I  trust  you  will  seek  Christ  early  ;  and 
that  '  Sis.  Net.'  will,  though  separated  here  in 
this  vale  of  tears,  meet  her  fond  brother  in  realms 
of  bliss  above.  Write  to  me  soon.  Your  brother 
Lewis  says,  '  You  must  be  a  very  good  boy,  and 
learn  your  books  well.'  Adieu !  Your  devoted 
sister." 

In  nothing  was  the  piety  of  Mrs.  Shuck  more 
strikingly  exhibited  than  in  her  intense  anxiety 
and  faithful  efforts  for  the  salvation  of  her  sisters 
and  brothers.  Residing  in  a  distant  and  strange 
land,  she  might  easily  have  filled  her  letters  to 
them  with  incidents  and  descriptions  of  natural 
scenery,  and  the  various  products  of  Eastern  art, 
far  more  interesting  to  them  than  pungent  appeals 
on  the  subject  of  religion.  She  was  under  a 
strong  temptation  to  do  so.  She  was  naturally 
cheerful,  and  had  an  eye  to  behold,  a  taste  to  ad- 
mire, and  a  fancy  to  paint,  whatever  was  beautiful 
and  grand  in  nature  or  in  art.  But  she  readily 
sacrificed  the  pleasing  for  the  useful.  She  was 
accustomed  to  view  every  subject,  and  every 
interest,  in  the  light  of  eternity.  The  letters  to 
her  brothers  and  sisters,  inserted  in  the  Memoir, 
are  but  fair  specimens  of  her  numerous  communi- 
cations to  them.  They  are  all  directed  to  the 
same  object  —  to  persuade  them  to  be  pious  and 
useful.  Her  first  solicitude  was  for  the  conver- 
sion of  Susan,  who  had  been  the  endeared  com- 
panion of  her  childhood.  This  was  the  object 
of  her  most  fervent  desire  and  most  importunate 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      173 

intercessions.  The  conversion  of  Susan  trans- 
ferred her  solicitude,  if  possible,  with  augmented 
tenderness,  to  her  youngest  sister,  Isabella.  Her 
joy  at  the  conversion  of  Susan  was  soon  absorbed 
in  anxiety  for  that  of  Isabella.  When  she  heard 
of  Isabella's  baptism,  her  joy  seemed  to  be  full. 
Her  brothers,  who  were  young  when  she  left 
America,  began  now  to  attract  her  pious  solicitude. 
The  above  letter  is  a  sample  of  the  simple  and 
skilful  method  by  which  she  sought  to  allure  her 
little  brothers  to  the  service  of  Christ.  The 
compiler  has  rarely  seen  any  thing  of  the  kind  so 
artless,  so  affectionate,  and  so  admirably  adapted 
to  interest,  win,  and  impress  the  tender  heart  of 
a  child.  '  If  her  brothers  should  be  heedless  of  the 
kind,  gentle,  pious,  I  may  say  heavenly  entreaties 
and  admonitions  of  their  fond,  departed  sister, 
they  will  incur  no  common  guilt.  We  trust  the 
strong  confidence  which  she  cherished  in  the  sal- 
vation of  all  her  endeared  family  will  receive  an 
early  and  joyful  confirmation. 

We    will   proceed   with   Mrs.   Shuck's   corre- 
spondence. 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"  APRIL,  1841. 

Ere  this  reaches  you,  you  will,  perhaps,  no 
longer  bear  the  name  of  Miss  Susan  Hall; 
but  it  will  have  been  converted  into  the  more  so- 
ber appellation  of  Mrs.  Susan  Critti:nd<:n.  I  say 
'  perhaps,'  because  so  many  disappointments  of 
that  kind  do  happen.  I  therefore  know  not  how 
to  write.  If  you  are  married,  I  pray  the  Lord  to 
bestow  on  you  and  yours  every  needful  blessing, 
both  temporal  and  spiritual ;  if  still  single,  may 
15* 


174  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

that  same  kind  Father  guide  and  direct  you  in 
the  path  of  duty.  I  will  just  say,  that  I  am  sat- 
isfied with  your  choice.  'Tis  true,  I  did  hope 
some  missionary  would  'pick  you  up;'  but,  as 
you  say  that  you  committed  it  to  God,  and  prayed 
over  jt,  I  will,  of  course,  feel  that  He  has  directed 
your  path. 

I  suppose  Lady  Bell  will  be  looking  out,  too,  for 
a  new  name,  by  and  by.  You  must  be  watchful 
over  her,  and  give  her  all  the  good  advice  you 
can  on  this,  as  well  as  other  matters.  May  you 
both,  my  dear  girls,  ever  keep  in  view,  amidst  all 
your  varied  scenes,  the  great  and  truly  important 
change  which  awaits  us  all.  Let  us  be  ever  on 
the  look-out  for  that  messenger  which  shall  sum- 
mon us  to  another  and  unchanging  state  of  exist- 
ence, and  so  live,  from  day  to  day,  as  to  go  in 
peace  and  joy." 

The  following  letter  to  Mrs.  Hall  is  given  as  a 
specimen  of  the  easy,  unpretending  style  of  her 
most  familiar  and  unreserved  correspondence. 

"MACAO,  APRIL  19,  1841. 
My  dear  Ma', 

Yesterday  our  hearts  were  gladdened  by  the 
arrival  of  letters  and  boxes  from  home.  The  box 
from  you  and  the  family  contained  many  pretty 
and  useful  articles,  and  gave  us  renewed  evidence 
that  we  still  live  in  your  memories,  and  share  in 
your  love.  The  dear  boys  stood  by,  and  were 
enraptured  whilst  we  opened,  and  took  from  the 
box  its  contents.  The  purses,  and  marbles,  &,c., 
greatly  charmed  them.  Every  thing  American 
is  of  great  consequence  with  them.  I  took  the 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      175 

pretty  mugs,  and  was  about  placing  them  away, 
when  they  loudly  called  out,  '  O  mamma,  they  are 
mine ! '  I  then  said,  '  Yes,  dear,  but  you  must 
take  care  of  these  beautiful  mugs,  and  use  them 
only  when  you  are  sick.'  Ryland  immediately 
replied,  '  Yes!  yes!  and  I  am  sick  now,  mamma,' 
which  was  quite  out  of  the  way,  as  he  never  was 
in  finer  health.  However,  I  gratified  them,  and 
allowed  them  that  night  to  drink  their  tea  out  of 
them.  Doubtless  they  never  before  sipped  such 
delicious  tea.  Akae  and  Jane  are  equally  pleased 
with  their  books ;  and  Lewis  and  Henrietta  no 
less  gratified  with  their  various  and  suitable  pres- 
ents. We  are  now  preparing  some  presents  for 
you,  which  we  hope  to  send  very  soon. 

But  now  to  your  affectionate  and  kind  letter. 
It  was  dated  June  15,  1840.  Since  then,  dear 
ma',  how  many  changes  have  taken  place,  both  in 
your  family  and  mine !  To  me  your  present 
circumstances  are  unknown,  and  you  are  equally 
ignorant  as  to  mine.  How  delightful  to  know 
that  there  is  One  to  whom  they  are  known ;  and 
that  One  rules,  and  overrules,  all  for  the  good  of 
those  who  put  their  trust  in  him !  One  of  the 
changes  I  will  now  advert  to  is,  the  birth  of  my 
darling  little  daughter,  '  Henrietta  Layton,'  who 
is  not  yet  three  weeks  old,  but  looks  more  like  a 
babe  of  three  months.  She  thrives,  and  is  a 
lovely  child.  May  she,  with  her  brothers,  be' 
trained  in  the  way  they  should  go.'  Of  course 
we  feel  additional  responsibilities  devolving  on 
us.  Pray  for  us,  dear  ma',  that  we  may  be  en- 
abled to  discharge  our  varied  duties  aright. 

I  will  just,  by  the  way,  here  tell  you  why  we 
have  called  her  '  Layton.'  Mr.  and  Mrs.  L. 


176  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

lived  in  China  some  years,  and  were  truly  onr 
friends.  Many  evidences  did  they  give  us  of 
this  fact.  They  have  since  removed,  and  are  now 
living  in  or  near  Bristol,  (Eng.,)  and  their  kind- 
ness to  us  continues  to  be  manifested  in  sending 
us  letters  and  presents.  In  Isabella's  box,  you 
will  find  some  bits  of  muslin,  like  dresses  which 
I  lately  received  from  Mrs.  L.,  together  with  a 
variety  of  other  very  necessary  articles.  Indeed, 
I  now  write  on  a  most  beautiful  portable  desk, 
neatly  fitted  up  with  pens,  knives,  wax,  &-c., 
which  Mr.  L.  sent  to  Mr.  S.  The  kindness  of 
these  friends,  and  the  hope  of  benefiting  them  in 
a  religious  way,  have  caused  us  to  name  our  love 
after  them.  You  would  love  these  friends  if  you 
knew  them,  and  I  am  sure  you  do  already  for 
our  sakes.  Mrs.  L.  came  to  see  me  one  cold 
winter  day,  and  found  me  trembling  with  cold,  as 
the  floor  of  our  room  admitted  the  wind  through 
the  cracks.  She  went  home,  and  actually  took 
a  carpet  from  her  own  room  and  sent  it  to  me, 
which  carpet  now  covers  my  bed-room.  Was 
not  this  kind  ?  A  thousand  other  evidences  of 
her  affection  could  I  mention  did  time  permit. 
Dear  ma',  we  have  very  many  friends  in  Macao. 
Scarcely  a  week  passes  that  we  do  not  receive 
some  useful  present.  Ship  biscuit  and  wafer 
crackers  we  have  in  abundance  —  all  given  to  us. 
We  trust  our  hearts  are  filled  with  gratitude  to 
God,  for  putting  it  into  the  hearts  of  these  dear 
friends  to  bestow  on  us  so  many  favors.  But 
really  I  must  close.  Baby  begs  for  her  '  tiffin,'  or 
snack,  by  piteous  cries  —  so  I  must  say  adieu." 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      177 

To  Mrs.  Hall,  her  Step-Mother. 

"JUNE  1,  1841. 

How  vast  the  contrast  between  your  situation 
and  mine !  Around  me  all  is  drear  and  dark. 
Sin,  idolatry,  and  death,  abound  here.  The  peo- 
ple with  whom  /dwell,  unlike  to  your  associates, 
care  nought  for  the  Sabbath,  nor  for  Him  who 
hath  hallowed  it.  They  toil  on,  regardless  of 
eternity,  and  careful  about  those  minor  things 
only,  which  concern  this  world.  They  are  told 
of  heaven  and  of  happiness  —  are  instructed  in 
those  truths,  so  dear  to  us,  which  the  word  of 
God  contains ;  but,  alas !  the  soil  of  their  hearts 
is  barren, -and  the  seed  sown  will  not  even  take 
root.  Dear  ma',  think  of  these  perishing  crea- 
tures, —  the  workmanship  of  God's  hand,  —  and 
plead  constantly  and  fervently  for  them." 


(  178  ) 


CHAPTER  X. 

1842-3  —  Removal  to  Hong  Kong  —  Reasons  for  removing — Mr.  8. 
raises  Money  to  erect  Chapels — Becomes  assistant  Editor  of  a 
Paper — Prospects  of  Usefulness  —  Mr.  I).-;in 's  Arrival  —  Mrs.  Shuck 
please. 1  in  Hong  Kong  —  China  opening  for  the  Gospel  —  Heat  of 
the  Climate  —  Letter  to  Isabella — Various  Reflections — Letter 
from  Dr.  Diver  to  Mr.  Hall  —  itaptlaim —  Rriplitening  Pnwpects — 
Increase  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  domestic  Cares  —  Death  of  Mrs.  Dean  — 
I  .-itmrs  of  the  Missionaries  —  Mrs.  S.'s  Health  |>oor  —  Proof  of  her 
Devotion  to  Missions  —  Affectionate  Disposition  —  Sickness  of 
Netty  —  Mr.  Shuck's  Postscript  —  Destitution  of  tbe  Kngtish  Sol- 
diers'  Wives. 

MRS.  SHUCK'S  next  letter  was  from  the  Island 
of  Hong  Kong,  40  miles  east  of  Macao,  at  which 
place  she  passed  the  remainder  of  her  life.  The 
causes  of  her  removal  are  sufficiently  explained 
in  the  following  letter  to  her  father  :  — 

"  MAT  2, 1842. 

I  have  just  finished  a  long  letter  to  Mrs.  K., 
and  am  almost  too  much  fatigued  to  commence 
one  to  you,  yet  I  feel  upbraided  for  having  so 
long  neglected  to  write  to  you.  The  fact  is,  that 
you  are  so  particular  about  writing,  and  your 
letters  are  penned  with  so  much  accuracy,  th;it  I 
never  like  to  write  to  you  unless  every  thing  is 
exactly  as  I  wish,  pens,  paper  t  ink,  time,  place,  <$*c., 
and  it  seldom  so  happens  that  I  am  thus  suited  to 
my  liking.  Now,  if  I  can  overcome  this  feeling, 
I  shall  be  sure  to  let  you  have  my  scrolls  oftener 
than  hitherto.  I  now  seat  myself  with  all  these 
things  against  me  —  with  only  a  tolerable  pen, 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      179 

thin  paper,  tired  out,  baby  crying,  Lewis  and  Ry- 
land  running  here,  there,  and  every  where,  and 
altogether  out  of  sorts,  still  I  will  force  myself  to 
begin.  When  once  begun,  I  shall  go  on  more 
easily,  and  you,  if  you  please,  while  perusing 
these  lines,  will  kindly  bear  in  mind  all  my  in- 
conveniences, and  pardon  what  you  see  amiss. 
Well,  to  begin  —  you  will,  doubtless,  wish  to  know 
what  we  are  doing  at  Hong  Kong.  This  place, 
which,  you  will  recollect,  was  taken  by  the 
English  two  years  ago,  is  fast  rising  to  a  city,  af- 
fords facilities  for  missionary  labor,  and,  withal, 
is  considered  a  healthy  spot.  My  health  required 
a  change  ;  we  thought  of  America ;  a  free  passage 
was  offered  us  via  England,  and  we  had  almost 
decided  to  embrace  the  offer.  We  earnestly 
sought  guidance  from  Him,  who  ever  directs  the 
paths  of  those  who  commit  their  ways  to  him ; 
and,  in  his  providence,  we  were  led  to  think  of 
going  to  Hong  Kong,  instead  of  America.  But 
what  were  we  to  do  when  we  went  there  ?  We 
had  no  money  with  which  to  purchase  land  and 
build  houses.  Again,  we  went  to  the  never-fail- 
ing Source.  The  thought  struck  Mr.  Shuck, 
that,  as  he  was  extensively  acquainted  in  Macao 
and  Canton,  he  would  apply  to  his  acquaintances, 
who  had  ever  proved  themselves  willing  to  assist 
him,  in  promoting  the  interests  of  missions.  The 
God  of  missions  blessed  the  effort,  and  in  a  few 
days  he  collected  about  fifteen  hundred  dollars  — 
went  over  to  Hong  Kong  to  see  about  obtaining 
ground  for  building  a  chapel  —  wrote  a  polite  let- 
ter to  the  plenipotentiary,  (Sir  Henry  Pottinger,) 
and  obtained  a  free  grant  of  a  lovely  spot.  God 
had  most  sigually  blessed  him,  and  now  it  was  his 


180  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

duty  to  persevere  in  the  work  to  which  he  had 
put  his  hand.  We  determined  immediately  to 
move  over ;  when,  lo !  to  our  sorrow,  a  sad  blow 
was  given.  We  received  authentic  accounts  of 
the  entire  failure  of  Boyd  &/  Co.,  agents  of  our 
Board,  from  whom  we,  and  the  other  missionaries 
in  the  East,  under  the  patronage  of  that  Board, 
obtained  our  funds.  We  were  without  money  — 
were  threatened  with  want  —  could  not  get  money 
without  borrowing  —  this  we  did  not  wish  to  do, 
for  we  knew  not  how  much  the  society  had  lost 
by  this  failure,  and  we  might  not  have  it  in  our 
power  to  repay  what  we  borrowed.  Perplexed 
and  grieved,  we  could  do  nothing  but  commit  our 
way  to  God,  knowing  assuredly  that  all  things 
shall  work  together  for  good  to  them  that  love 
him.  In  the  midst  of  all,  a  bright  spot  breaks 
through  the  dark  cloud.  A  well-educated  gentle- 
man, hearing  of  Mr.  Shuck's  situation,  offers  to 
pay  his  expenses  over  to  Hong  Kong,  give  a  com- 
fortable house  to  live  in,  and  fifty  dollars  monthly, 
if  he  would  take  the  joint  editorship,  and  super- 
intend the  printing  of  a  paper,  which  he  wished 
to  publish.  The  way  is  plain  —  it  is  never  dishon- 
orable to  work ;  so  (though,  under  other  circum- 
stances, as  our  chief  object  is  to  labor  for  the  con- 
version of  the  heathen,  he  would  have  rejected 
the  offer)  he  accepts  the  proposition,  and  engaged 
himself  for  one  year.  'Friend  of  China'  is  the 
name  of  the  paper,  a  copy  of  which  shall  be 
regularly  sent  to  you.  We  came  over,  and  set- 
tled ourselves  comfortably.  Now,  though  Mr.  S. 
is  connected  with  this  paper,  his  missionary  work 
is  not  suspended.  He  has  engaged  builders,  who 
are  now  erecting  a  splendid  chapel  on  the  lot 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      181 

previously  mentioned,  to  be  called  '  Queen's-Road 
Baptist  Chapel ; '  is  putting  up  another  building 
in  the  Bazaar,  in  the  midst  of  the  Chinese  dwell- 
ings, to  be  called  the  'Bazaar  Baptist  Chapel;' 
has  formed  a  school  consisting  of  twelve  boys, 
which  he  superintends ;  is  erecting  a  private  resi- 
dence for  ourselves,  near  to  the  first-named  chapel ; 
preaches  three  times  on  the  Sabbath,  twice  to 
Chinese  and  once  to  English  soldiers;  and,  I  trust, 
is  moving  in  a  sphere  of  greater  usefulness  than 
he  has  been  since  our  arrival  on  heathen  territory. 
But  again, —  for  I  must  spin  my  yarn  still  longer, 
—  two  weeks  after  Mr.  S.  thus  connected  himself 
with  the  paper,  he  received  a  letter,  in  which  it  is 
stated  most  satisfactorily  that  he  is  at  liberty, 
with  all  the  other  missionaries,  to  draw  on  Alex- 
ander, Esq.,  for  three  fourths  of  our  salary.  So 
much  the  better,  for  now  (we  could  not  do  it 
before)  we  commence  building  a  mission-house, 
spending  on  it  all  the  money  we  can  save  through 
the  strictest  economy ;  and  it  will  be  given  to  the 
Society,  notwithstanding  it  is  built  in  part  of  our 
private  funds.  We  do  not  wish  for  property. 
No,  we  feel  that  He  who  feeds  the  ravens  and 
clothes  the  grass  of  the  fields,  will  provide  for 
our  fond  offspring.  I  will  not  cherish  one  feeling 
otherwise.  To  the  service  of  our  heavenly  Fa- 
ther we  devoted  ourselves,  our  all,  and  I  feel  strong 
faith  in  his  precious  promises.  He  will  be  with 
us  to  the  end  of  our  pilgrimage,  and  when  we 
slumber  in  the  tomb,  the  same  kind  care  will,  I 
believe,  be  extended  to  the  dear  objects  of  our 
love.  It  would  be  base  in  us  now,  after  so  many 
proofs  of  his  faithfulness,  not  to  trust  to  him  for 
the  future. 

16 


182  MEMOIR   OP   MRS.    SHUCK. 

Since  commencing  this  letter,  I  have  heard  of 
.the  arrival  of  Rev.  Mr.  Dean  and  wife,  with  two 
native  Christians,  one  to  assist  Mr.  Shuck  in 
making  known  to  his  deluded  countrymen  the 
gospel  of  peace.  Mr.  Dean's  health  h'ld  quite 
tailed  in  Bankok,  and  as  he  derived  such  essen- 
tial beuefit  from  his  previous  visit  to  Macao,  he 
has  come  again  ;  I  am  happy  to  say,  however, 
not  on  a  visit,  but  with  the  intention  of  settling 
in  China.  It  is  not,  just  at  present,  expedient  for 
him  to  move  his  wife  over  here,  but,  as  soon  as 
circumstances  will  permit,  they  will  come  over, 
and  be  connected  with  us  in  the  mission.  They 
may  hereafter  go  northward,  as  it  remains  to  be 
seen  whether  there  is  a  sufficient  number  of 
Chinese  in  this  place,  speaking  the  dialect  which 
he  understands,  to  justify  his  locating  here.  We 
should  much  like  to  have  him  and  his  wife 
associated  with  us.  May  God  direct !  There  is 
abundant  work  here,  on  the  Island  of  Hong  Kong, 
for  several  missionaries. 

But  I  have  not  yet  told  you  whether  I  like 
living  here.  I  trust,  my  first  inquiry  on  going 
to  any  place  will  ever  be,  Can  I  be  useful  here  ? 
If  not,  I  could  not  be  happy.  So  far,  I  see  many 
ways  in  which  I  can  be  more  useful  here  than  in 
Macao:  the  change  has  decidedly  improved  my 
health ,  and  the  place  is  under  the  English  gov- 
ernment, and  a  protection  is  afforded  to  its  inhab- 
itants, not  enjoyed  in  Macao.  On  the  whole,  I 
much  prefer  my  present  residence  to  Macao ; 
though,  being  a  new  settlement,  we  are  deprived 
of  many  comforts,  and  of  society.  I  w?»a  the 
jirst  female  who  came  to  reside  here.  One  other, 
a  Mrs.  Ramsay,  has  come  since.  I  feel  the  want 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      183 

of  the  delightful  society  of  the  missionaries  with 
whom  I  associated  at  Macao ;  but  soon  they 
will,  many  of  them,  come  over.  Mr.  Brown,  Dr. 
Hobson,  Mr.  Bridgmaii,  D.  D.,  are  preparing  to 
build  here.  The  merchants  are  building  largely, 
and  in  a  few  months,  most  likely,  there  will  be 
many  families  living  here.  Mr.  Boone,  Mr.  Mac- 
bryde,  and  others,  studying  the  Fokeen  dialect, 
will  go  to  Amoy.  Mr.  Abeel  has  already  gone 
there.  China,  dear  pa',  is  no  longer  what  it  was. 
Doors  are  flying  open,  and  missionaries,  carrying 
with  them  the  bread  of  life,  are  entering.  The 
war,  though  it  has  been  the  means  of  much 
devastation  and  many  deaths,  has  also  been  the 
means  ef  opening  the  eyes  of  these  blind  and 
ignorant  people.  I  sincerely  pray  that  a  peaceful 
settlement  may  soon  take  place  between  the  two 
contending  nations,  and  the  millions  who  survive 
the  war  may  yet  bless  God  for  the  affliction  sent 
on  them,  inasmuch  as  it  has  been  the  means  of 
opening  the  closed  doors  to  the  heralds  of  the 
cross." 

To  Mrs.  Hall. 

"JoiiB  13,  1842. 

Dear  ma',  you  have  no  conception  of  the 
heat  of  this  and  other  Eastern  climates.  We 
feel  incapable  often  to  walk,  stand,  or  eat ;  indeed, 
the  most  difficult  task  I  have  to  do,  sometimes, 
is  to  eat  my  breakfast,  so  languid  do  I  feel.  It  is 
not  so  with  me  just  now,  as  my  appetite  is  very 
good.  The  most  comfortable  place  in  h;  t  ueuther 
is  the  bathing-room,  in  which  I  keep  severul  tubs, 
of  different  sizes,  full  of  water.  My  dear  boys 
go  in,  and  swim  about,  (as  they  call  it,)  several 


184  MEMOIR    OF    MBS.    SHUCK. 

times  during  the  day.  They  enjoy  most  excel- 
lent health,  and,  I  trust,  their  precious  little  sister 
will,  after  her  teeth  are  done  troubling  her.  She 
has  been  healthy  from  her  birth,  till  within  the 
last  several  months  she  has  seemed  exceedingly 
delicate.  I  had  to  take  her  to  Macao,  a  few 
weeks  ago,  for  the  change,  and  also  to  seek  medi- 
cal advice,  as  there  was  no  physician  here  at  the 
time.  The  change  proved  beneficial  to  her.  How 
much  care  and  anxiety  do  these  little  dears  cost 
their  mothers !  I  often  think  how  much  children 
owe  their  parents,  and  how  base  it  is  in  them 
when  they  are  ungrateful  to  them. 

I  feel  very  thankful  to  you  for  your  kind  letter 
of  Nov.  23,  1841,  which  came  to  hand  a  few  days 
ago.  It  had  been  a  long  time  since  I  received  a 
letter  from  you,  and  I  was  anxiously  expecting 
one.  Your  account  of  the  tour  you  made  with 
pa'  was  particularly  interesting,  and  to  hear  of 
so  many  joining  the  church  of  God  really  afforded 
me  heartfelt  joy.  I  rejoiced  to  hear  that  two, 
for  whom  I  tried  to  pray,  had  embraced  religion, 
viz.  S.  L.  S.  and  S.  D.  Give  my  love  to  them, 
and  may  they  prove  faithful  to  their  Creator,  and 
finally  receive  a  crown  of  life." 

To  her  Sister  Isabella. 

"JUNE  14,1842. 

And  now,  dear  Bell,  let  me  thank  you  most 
heartily  for  your  long,  kind  letter  of  Nov.  10, 
1841,  which  I  received  a  day  or  two  ago,  with 
others  from  the  family,  and  also  a  goodly  number 
of  religious  papers.  Your  improvement  in  writ- 
ing is  very  great,  and  delights  me  much.  If  you 
persevere,  you  will  soon  be  able  to  write  with  ease 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      185 

and  elegance,  and  you  must  bear  in  mind  that 
'  practice  makes  perfect,'  and  write  a  great  many 
letters  to  me,  and  your  dear  brother,  who,  I  assure 
you,  loves  you  devotedly,  as  also  all  the  family. 

You  mention  the  death  of  J.  H.,  whom  1  recol- 
lect, and  cousin  E.'s  eldest  child.  I  sincerely 
sympathize  with  the  parents  of  both,  and  while 
I  believe  that  those  of  the  former  will  have  grace 
given  them  to  bear  with  Christian  submission  the 
will  of  God,  I  trust  those  of  the  latter  may  be 
brought  to  a  sense  of  their  own  state,  and  seek 
to  follow  their  darling  daughter  to  the  mansions 
of  the  blest.  It  is  to  me,  my  dear  sister,  a  mat- 
ter of  thankfulness,  while  I  hear  of  one  and 
another  falling  into  the  grave,  that  my  sisters  and 
brothers  are  still  permitted  to  live.  But  I  desire 
to  have  my  mind  prepared  for  any  thing  that  may 
come.  I  cannot  expect,  in  this  world  of  change 
and  sorrow,  to  pass  through  the  journey  of  life 
without  feeling  some  of  the  pangs  which  others 
have  experienced.  I  may  yet  follow  to  their  last 
resting-place  one  or  more  of  my  sweet  offspring. 
I  may  live  to  hear  of  the  death  of  my  fond  father, 
my  sisters,  or  my  brothers ;  or,  what  is  worse 
than  all,  I  may  be  bereft  of  the  devoted  compan- 
ion of  my  youth,  and  left  a  widow  in  a  foreign 
land.  I  know  not  which  of  these  evils  may 
befill  me,  or  whether  I  may  not  fall  a  victim  to 
disease,  and  leave  my  husband  and  my  children 
alone  in  this  unfriendly  world.  But  one  thing  I 
feel  assured  of,  which  often  affords  me  comfort, — 
that  my  times  are  in  the  hands  of  God,  and  that  all 
things  shall  work  together  for  good  to  them  that 
love  an'd  serve  him.  Why  should  I  trouble  my- 
gelf,  then,  as  to  the  future?  No,  let  me  rejoice 
16* 


186  MEMOIR   OF   MES.    SHUCK. 

always,  even  in  affliction.  What  would  this 
world  be  without  an  interest  in  Christ  ?  What 
but  religion  can  bear  us  up  under  the  trials  of 
life  ?  What  else  can  cause  us  to  trend,  with  joy- 
ful steps,  the  sometimes  dark  and  unknown  paths 
of  life  ?  Let  us,  then,  ever  rely  on  Christ,  re- 
solving, that,  let  others  do  as  they  may,  as  for  us, 
we  will  love  and  serve' the  Lord. 

I  had  a  long  conversation,  yesterday  afternoon, 
with  an  English  gentleman,  who  is  intelligent  in 
the  things  of  this  world,  but  manifests  a  woful 
ignorance  of  the  plan  of  redemption.  He  told 
me  he  believed  that  there  is  a  God,  a  heaven,  but 
no  hell;  and  that  all  was  'fudge'  concerning 
the  punishment .  of  the  wicked  hereafter.  He 
made  many  such  harsh  and  wild  remarks.  I  told 
him  plainly  what  I  knew,  and  what  I  thought  he 
might  expect,  except  he  should  repent  of  his  sins, 
and  seek  pardon  from  a  merciful  but  just  God. 
He  thought  me  a  fanatic,  and  I  thought  him  what 
is  worse.  He  rose  to  leave,  after  some  time,  and 
said,  '  Well,  Mrs.  Shuck,  I'll  leave  your  delusion 
—  'tis  all  a  dream.'  Said  I,  'Happy  for  you 
were  it  so  ; '  and  we  parted,  when  I  most  devoutly 
prayed  to  God  to  cause  him  to  see  himself  a  vile 
sinner." 

Dr.  Diver,  having  left  the  East  on  account  of 
his  health,  settled  in  Athens,  Ohio.  Under  date 
of  Oct.  1842,  he  addressed  the  following  letter  to 
Rev.  Mr.  Hall:  — 

"  I  received  to-day,  from  the  hands  of  a  gentle- 
man from  Philadelphia,  a  large  parcel  of  letters 
from  China,  among  which  was  one  from  you,  in 


DR.  DIVER'S  LETTER  TO  MR.  HALL.     187 

answer  to  my  letters  having  special  reference  to 
the  health  of  your  daughter,  Mrs.  Shuck.  And 
although  two  years  have  elapsed  since  this  letter 
was  written,  I  feel  called  upon  to  think  you  for 
the  kind  wishes  expressed;  and  though  fur  re- 
moved from  the  interesting  family  at  Macao," 
(now  in  Hong  Kong,)  "  who  still  hive  my  warm 
affection.  I  often  wish  I  could  get  intelligence 
from  them.  The  interesting  SCCIIPS  I  witnessed 
among  them  often  rise  vividly  before  my  mind, 
and  I  fancy  I  see  the  bright-black-eyed  Lewis,  or 
the  laughing,  romping  little  Ryland,  running  to 
meet  me,  as  I  enter  their  father's  hospitable  dwell- 
ing ;  or  hastening  to  shut  the  door,  as  I  rise  to  go, 
lest  my  "visit  be  too  short.  Sometimes,  I  think  1 
hear  them  calling  me  to  stop,  and  wait  to  take 
them  down  to  '  Sha-lan-tsai.'  O  !  how  my  heart 
throbs  with  love  to  that  dear  family  !  my  affec- 
tion for  them  while  I  was  in  China  was  sincere 
and  ardent,  and  now,  while  separated,  it  appears 
to  strengthen." 

To  her  Father. 

"  SEPT.  3,  1842. 

Mr.  Shuck  has  his  hands  full,  and  most 
excellent  attendance  on  his  preaching,  both  in 
Chinese  and  English.  He  has  buptized  several 
persons  lately,  and  there  seems  to  be  a  gleam  of 
hope  that  God  will  pour  out  his  spirit  on  the  in- 
habitants of  this  place." 

To  Mrs.  Keeling. 

"ApniL  23,  1843. 

I  am  reminded  of  the  great  length  of  time 
which  has  passed  since  I  wrote  to  you,  by  looking 


188  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

over  the  Religious  Herald,  which  has  lately 
reached  us,  and  in  which  I  see  some  extracts 
from  my  last  communication  to  you.  I  know  you 
will  excuse  me,  for  though  I  plead  guilty,  yet  I 
may  somewhat  lessen  that  guilt  by  giving  you  an 
account  of  the  extraordinary  circumstances  of  my 
family.  For  some  months  my  own  health  was 
very,  very  precarious,  and  my  little  Henrietta  was 
at  the  same  time  in  exceedingly  delicate  health, 
and  being  without  a  nurse  for  her,  I  was  much 
occupied  in  taking  care  of  her.  For  the  sake  of 
change,  I  took  her  to  Macao,  leaving  the  boys 
with  their  papa.  In  the  mean  time,  Mr.  Dean 
and  his  family  removed  over  to  Hong  Kong,  and 
took  up  their  residence  in  our  family,  which,  of 
course,  greatly  augmented  my  domestic  duties. 
About  four  months  ago,  a  young  Chinese  lad,  who 
had  embraced  religion,  and  been  baptized  in 
Baltimore,  arrived  here,  and  having  no  means  of 
support,  we  took  him  in  to  share  with  us  our  pit- 
tance. Two  months  after,  Dr.  MacGovvan  arrived, 
and  he  finds  with  us  also  a  home.  He  found  us 
all  in  reasonable  health.  My  little  Jane  was  then 
recovering  from  the  chicken-pox.  Soon  after, 
another  little  girl,  Mecha,  was  taken  down  with 
high  fever.  We  all  hoped  it  was  only  chicken- 
pox ;  but  in  a  few  days  the  doctors  affirmed  it  to 
be  varioloid.  She  was  ill  for  two  weeks,  and  re- 
quired constant  attention  and  care  on  my  part. 
As  she  became  better,  Mrs.  Dean  was  one  day 
suddenly  taken  ill.  Her  fever  raged  beyond  the 
power  of  medical  skill,  for  some  three  or  four 
days,  when  an  eruption  followed,  which  was  pro- 
nounced to  be  confluent  kmall-pox.  In  eight  days 
from  the  time  she  became  ill,  she  fell  asleep  in 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  BETTERS.      189 

Jesus.  As  to  the  state  of  .her  mind,  we  can  say 
nothing.  We  think,  from  the  expression  of  her 
countenance,  she  was  sensible  to  the  last;  but  for 
four  days  previous  to  her  death,  the  power  of 
speech  had  failed ;  all  she  could  say  was,  '  No,' 
indistinctly.  You  can  easily  enter  into  my  feel- 
ings, with  so  many  children  exposed  to  this 
dreadful  disease.  Mrs.  Dean  had  been  vaccinat- 
ed, and  I  feared  that,  as  in  her  case  vaccination 
proved  to  be  no  security  against  the  small-pox,  it 
might  not  in  ours.  I  could  only  look  to  the 
never-failing  Source  of  comfort,  feeling  assured, 
that  as  my  day,  so  should  my  strength  be. 
Thanks  to  a  kind  Providence,  no  other  case  of 
the  disease  has  occurred  in  the  family. 

We  all  feel  the  loss  we  have  sustained  in  the 
death  of  our  dear  sister,  and  warned  to  put  our 
houses  in  order.  She  was  in  perfect  health,  and 
most  likely  to  live  of  any  in  the  house.  The 
morning  previous  to  her  attack,  she  took  a  walk 
of  several  miles  before  sun-up,  and  while  sitting 
at  breakfast,  I  observed  how  well  she  appeared, 
and  how  rosy  were  her  cheeks.  She  remarked 
that  she  felt  great  concern  for  my  health,  and 
begged  me  to  walk  early  in  the  mornings.  Alas ! 
how  little  did  she,  or  any  of  us,  think  that  in 
eight  days  more  her  rosy  cheeks  would  be  pale, 
and  her  active  limbs  stiff  in  death !  I  feel  that 
the  mission  have  sustained  a  great  loss.  She  was 
eminently  prepared  for  usefulness,  having  ac- 
quired such  a  knowledge  of  the  Chinese  language 
as  to  enable  her  to  read  it,  and  compose  in  it,  with 
facility.  I  feel  her  loss,  for  she  was  kind  enough 
to  take  the  charge  of  my  children  and  pupils 
two  hours  every  day,  and  give  them  instruction. 


190  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

They  were  making  astonishing  progress,  and  the 
arrangement  greatly  relieved  me.  I  deeply  sym- 
pathize with  our  dear  brother  D.,  who  is  again 
left  with  an  infant  daughter.  His  two  little  girls, 
Matilda  and  Fanny,  are  each  representatives  of  a 
departed  mother.  God  truly  moves  in  a  mysteri- 
ous way;  his  thoughts  are  not  as  our  thoughts. 
We,  poor,  short-sighted  mortals,  cannot  now  see 
why  (he  wife  and  mother  has  been  taken  away ; 
but,  by  and  by,  we  shall  know,  and  rejoice  that 
thus  it  was.  Bro.  D.  bears  his  loss  with  astonish- 
ing fortitude  and  Christian  manliness.  May  we 
all,  by  this  Providence,  remember  th'it  we,  too, 
are  mortal,  and  may  we  be  roused  to  diligence  in 
our  Master's  cause,  knowing,  assuredly,  that  the 
night  cometh  in  which  no  man  can  work.  Pray 
for  me,  my  dear  sister.  /  may  be  the  next  victim 
of  the  destroyer.  I  feel,  as  Mrs.  Newell  said, 
'  this  mud-wall  cottage  shake.'  O  that  I  may 
be  ready  for  its  fall ! 

I  have  some  two  or  three  items  more  to  com- 
municate, which  I  am  assured  will  interest  you 
and  brother  K.  Relative  to  our  labors  here  at 
present,  I  am  encouraged  to  say,  that  we  believe 
the  pleasure  of  the  Lord  to  be  prospering  in  our 
hands.  The  church,  which  numbered  five  mem- 
bers at  its  constitution,  has  now  lucre. ised  four- 
fold. Two  clripels  are  completed,  and  large 
congregations  of  both  Chinese  and  English  as- 
semble to  hear  the  preached  gospel.  Mr.  Shuck 
is  assisted  by  brother  Dean,  and  the  brethren 
of  other  denominations,  in  English  services, 
which  are  held  at  the  Queen'  s-Road-C  ha  pel  three 
times  a  week.  He  preaches  in  this  clvipel  every 
Sabbath,  at  2  o'clock,  P.  M.,  and  every  Friday 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HE*  LETTERS.      191 

night,  and  three  times  a  week  he  holds  sen  ice  in 
the  Bazaar  Chapel,  in  Chinese,  besides  having 
family  worship  at  night  in  Chinese,  and  in  the 
morning  in  English,  at  our  own  house.  Messrs. 
Roberts  and  Dean  have  their  services  also  at  the 
Bazaar  Chapel.  Mr.  Dean  holds  family  prayers 
with  his  domestics,  and  others,  in  his  own  study 
every  morning.  Truth  seems  to  be  taking  hold 
on  the  minds  of  the  people.  A  few  Sabbaths  ago, 
Mr.  Shuck  had  the  privilege  of  baptizing  a  mer- 
chant and  his  wife  ;  and  this  morning  we  again 
visited  the  baptismal  waters,  and  saw  him  lead 
into  the  liquid  grave  a  young  English  soldier, 
who  gives  pleasing  evidence  of  being  born  again. 
Bro.  De;wi  followed,  leading  two  others,  who,  but 
a  few  months  ago,  bowed  their  knees  to  gods  of 
wood  and  stone.  Yes,  my  dear  friend,  our 
hearts  are  encouraged,  indeed,  to  see  two  Chinese 
thus  put  on  Christ  before  the  world.  O !  may 
they  walk  in  newness  of  life.  We  expect  more 
will  soon  apply  for  baptism.  I  feel  encouraged, 
also,  concerning  my  dear  little  Jane  Maria.  I 
believe  God  is  at  work  with  her.  O !  if  she 
should  be  saved,  it  will  be  worth  all  my  toil  and 
all  my  sacrifices.  The  joy  will  far  outweigh  all 
the  sorrow  it  cost  me  to  bid  adieu  to  the  land  of 
my  nativity,  my  father's  house,  the  circle  of 
brothers,  sisters,  and  Christian  friends,  and  I  shall 
feel  that  to  have  been  the  humble  instrument  in 
snatching  this  tender  lamb  from  the  lion's  den, 
will  cause  me  more  happiness  than  to  have  gained 
the  wealth  of  worlds.  Shall  I,  O!  shall  /,  un- 
worthy as  I  am,  reach  heaven,  and  there  meet 
any  one  of  this  people,  who,  but  for  me,  would 
have  sunk  to  woe  ?  The  thought  is  too  much  for 
me ;  I  cannot  dwell  on  it." 


192  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

During  most  of  the  year  1843,  Mrs.  Shuck's 
health  was  extremely  feeble.  At  the  birth  of  her 
fourth  child,  Oscar  Devan,  she  was  on  the  very 
verge  of  the  grave.  Her  physician,  at  one  time, 
almost  despaired  of  her  recovery.  God,  however, 
again  raised  her  up,  so  lhat  she  was  able  to  attend 
to  her  domestic  duties.  It  was  evident  that  her 
constitution  was  gradually  failing  under  the  ener- 
vating influence  of  the  climate  and  repeated 
attacks  of  disease.  In  the  month  of  July,  through 
the  advice  of  her  doctor,  she  visited  Macao, 
leaving  her  husband  and  two  older  children,  and 
taking  with  her  little  Netty,  in  very  poor  health,  and 
her  youngest  child,  an  infant.  At  this  time,  her 
weight  was  only  eighty-five  pounds,  though  when 
she  left  America  it  was  more  than  one  hundred. 
Her  letters,  at  this  period,  bear  obvious  marks  of 
her  feebleness  and  lassitude.  They  are  not  com- 
posed with  so  much  vivacity,  nor  penned  with  so 
much  care  and  accuracy,  as  those  of  former  years. 
In  one  respect,  however,  it  is  pleasing  to  observe, 
they  suffer  no  diminution.  They  exhibit  the 
same  strong  confidence  in  God,  and  breathe  the 
same  fervent  spirit  of  piety,  and  devotion  to  the 
work  of  missions,  which  characterized  her  for- 
mer correspondence.  She  gave,  at  this  time,  an 
affecting  proof  of  her  entire  consecration  to  the 
missionary  work.  She  was  most  ardently  at- 
tached to  her  father,  and  her  relatives  generally. 
She  would  have  enjoyed  greatly  a  visit  to  the 
United  States.  In  a  letter  to  her  sister  Susan, 
written  at  this  period,  she  says,  "  My  feeling," 
with  respect  to  visiting  America,  "  is,  the  will  of 
God  be  done.  If  he  wills  it,  most  gladly  would 
we  turn  our  faces  homeward  ;  if  not,  most  joy- 


REMARKS  BY  THE  COMPILER.        193 

fully  will  we  live  and  die  in  China.  At  present, 
we  see  not  the  least  prospect  that  we  shall  ever 
visit  America.  God,  by  his  providences,  seems 
to  be  stationing  us  more  permanently  at  Hong 
Kong.  Still  we  know  not  what  is  in  the  womb 
of  futurity.  A  short  time  and  all  our  plans  may 
be  thwarted :  we  may  be  on  our  journey  to  old 
Virginia,  or  we  may  be  safely  landed  in  our  last 
resting-place.  God  Almighty  direct.  Leave  us 
not  to  ourselves"  Shortly  after  this,  some  of 
the  members  of  the  mission  proposed  that  Mrs. 
Shuck  should  visit  America ;  but  she  promptly 
declined  doing  so.  A  visit  to  Macao  might  re- 
store her  health  ;  at  any  rate,  she  hoped  to  be 
able,  by  care,  to  endure  the  heat  of  summer,  and 
that  the  bracing  weather  of  winter  would  restore 
her  usual  health.  "  May  the  Lord,"  said  she, 
"  ever  direct  us  aright.  I  have  always  felt  it  a 
most  delightful  privilege  to  commit  my  way  to 
him." 

For  nothing  was  Mrs.  Shuck  more  remarkable 
than  for  the  affectionateness  of  her  disposition. 
She  loved  every  one  with  whom  she  became  ac- 
quainted, and  was  quite  sure  to  secure  a  recipro- 
cation of  this  feeling.  Her  generous  heart  knew 
no  distinction  between  the  high  and  the  low. 
She  ever  exhibited  a  sincere  attachment  to  her 
father's  servants,  and  a  fervent  solicitude  for  their 
spiritual  welfare.  In  her  letters  to  her  family, 
she  often  speaks  of  them  in  the  kindest  terms. 
Take  the  following  extract  as  a  specimen  :  "  Much 
love  to  all  the  servants.  Tell  them  that  I  love 
them  still.  How  are  my  poor  old  Chaina,  Violet, 
Levin*,  Solomon,  and  the  others?  Is  Solomon 
not  a  Christian  yet?  Tell  him  '  Miss  Henrietta' 
17 


194  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

remembers  and  prays  for  him,  and  wishes  to 
meet  him  in  heaven.  I  trust  that  Chaina,  Violet, 
and  Lcvina  are  not  growing  tired,  but  pressing 
on  to  Canaan.  Ask  them  to  pray  for  me,  arid  for 
the  poor  heathen,  whose  minds  are  very  dark  — 
who  worship  wood  and  stone." 

To  Mrs.  Keeling. 

"  SEPT.  27,  1843. 

Your  letter  is  full  of  good  news.  To  hear 
of  so  many  joining  the  ranks  of  the  Lord  is  in- 
deed glorious  tidings.  O,  may  they  all  prove 
faithful,  and  finally  receive  a  crown  of  glory  ! 
Are  you  not  encouraged  to  find  such  a  large  num- 
ber amongst  them,  who  were  once  your  pupils? 
Is  it  not  reasonable  to  suppose  that  your  instruc- 
tions were  the  means  of  leading  them,  or  some  of 
them  at  least,  to  think  of  their  eternal  destiny? 
Be  encouraged  then,  my  dear,  affectionate  friend, 
and  go  on  sowing  the  seed,  and  you  will  most 
assuredly  reap,  if  you  faint  not.  The  precious 
instructions,  on  many  points,  which  I  received 
from  you  and  your  dear  husband,  are  still  fresh  in 
my  memory :  and,  though  while  young  I  thought 
not  so  much  of  them,  yet  now,  in  maturer  years, 
they  are  treasures,  yea,  seed,  which,  sown  in  the 
morning,  are  now  springing  up.  I  can  never  for- 
get your  kindness  to  me  and  my  sweet  sisters. 
Your  reward  awaits  you  in  a  better  world.  I 
often  think  of  the  kind,  the  tender  way  in  which 
you  spoke  to  me :  if  you  had  to  correct,  it  was 
done  with  so  much  love  that  it  won  upon  me,  and 
increased  rather  than  diminished  my  affection  for 
you ;  and  while  almost  every  one  with  whom  I 
met  endeavored  to  pour  cold  water  on  the  little 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      195 

flame  of  missionary  spirit  which  I  cherished,  you 
and  your  companion  fanned  and  enlivened  it  by 
your  kind  and  judicious  suggestions.  Had  the 
providence  of  God  not  placed  me  under  your  in- 
structions, I  sometimes  think  the  unkind  remarks 
which  were  made  concerning  my  going  as  a  mis- 
sionary might  have  wounded  my  spirit,  so  as  to 
cause  me  to  decide  that  I  was  not  called  of  God 
to  this  work.  But  at  your  school  I  was  taught  to 
feel  more  and  more  for  the  perishing  heathen,  and 
not  till  I  had  been  with  you  some  time  did  1  decide 
logo. 

You  speak  of  desiring  to  see  me  again  in 
America.  If  it  be  the  will  of  God,  I  feel  that  it 
would  afford  me  great  happiness  to  visit  that 
land,  to  meet  once  more,  face  to  face,  my  kindred 
and  friends,  but  not  unless  it  be  his  will.  The 
future  is  to  me  unknown,  but  I  feel  the  greatest 
joy  in  committing  my  way  to  God.  He  will  di- 
rect, I  know  he  will. 

Little  Henrietta  is  still  a  delicate  plant,  and  I 
sometimes  fear  that  this  uncongenial  clime  will 
prove  fatal  to  her.  For  the  last  eight  months  she 
has  had  a  constant  diarrhoea,  which  has  baffled  the 
skill  of  the  best  physicians,  and  the  greatest  care 
on  my  part  as  to  her  diet.  It  still  hangs  on  her, 
and  I  know  not  what  to  do.  A  trip  to  Macao  had 
no  good  effect.  She  is  cheerful,  sleeps  well,  has 
an  excellent  appetite,  and  to  appearance  is  well ; 
but  I  fear  the  complaint,  having  now  assumed  a 
chronic  form,  will  Hie  very  hard  to  cure.  Still  I 
will  hope  for  the  best,  and  trust  the  cold  weather 
will  prove  beneficial  to  her,  as  well  as  to  her 
mother,  who  is  almost  always  suffering  in  the 
same  way.  Mr.  Shuck's  health  is  remarkable. 


196  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

He  is  as  strong,  I  think,  as  when  he  was  in 
America,  and  is  busy  from  early  morn  till  late  at 
night." 

Appended  to  this  letter  there  is  a  postscript 
from  Mr.  Shuck.  It  is  as  follows :  — 

"  Mrs.  Shuck's  head  will  not  allow  her  to  fin- 
ish this  sheet,  and  therefore  she  turns  over  this 
side  to  me.  I  had  determined  to  write  you,  and 
your  dear  husband,  a  long  letter,  and  I  h;ive  not 
yet  abandoned  the  determination  to  do  so,  ere- 
long. Henrietta  has  given  you  all  the  family 
news.  As  to  my  labors,  I  may  remark  that  they 
are  encouraging,  amidst  a  vast  deal  of  discourage- 
ment. The  church  under  my  care  a  few  months 
ago  numbered  twenty-six  members ;  but  death  has 
taken  away  three  in  the  triumphs  of  faith,  and 
we  have  been  compelled  to  exclude  two  native 
members,  who  were  baptized  by  Mr.  Roberts. 
Still  my  congregations  are  large  and  very  inter- 
esting, and  I  have  seven  or  eight  inquirers,  who 
afford  me  much  hope.  Three  of  these  are  highly 
literary  men  in  their  own  country,  u  fourth  is  a 
Chinese  physician,  and  fifth  is  a  priest  of  the 
Budha  sect  —  three  are  applicants  for  baptism. 
My  health  never  was  better,  and  I  am  allowed 
the  great  privilege  of  holding  eleven  Chinese 
services  weekly.  The  Chinese  congregations  on 
Lord's  days  at  public  preaching  are  large  and 
attentive.  Pray  for  us  —  we  most  of  all  need  the 
descent  of  the  Holy  Spirit.  I  sometimes  think 
that  the  hearts  of  the  Chinese  are  farther  from 
God  than  those  of  any  other  people.  I  suffer  fo- 
want  of  a  colleague.  Mr.  Dean's  church  wor- 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      197 

ship  in  the  Bazaar  Chapel,  where  he  also  has 
large  and  interesting  congregations.  Mr.  D.  and 
I,  you  know,  speak  entirely  clifferents  dialects  —  he 
the  Tea  Chew,  and  I  the  Canton.  He  Jives  in 
our  faatily,  and  is  a  most  worthy  brother.  Our 
mission  has  been  greatly  strengthened  by  the 
arrival  of  Dr.  MacGowan,  a  pious  and  intelligent 
young  gentleman,  of  the  right  missionary  stamp. 
lie  left  us  a  day  or  two  ago  to  establish  a  new 
station  at  Ningpo. 

I  am  truly  pleased  with  the  '  Va.  Baptist 
Preacher,'  and  shall  always  be  glad  to  receive  it. 
Good  Brother  K \  laud  has  been  sending  me  copies 
of  it.  It  is  judiciously  edited,  because  the  right 
man  hasliold  of  it.  Sincerely  do  I  hope  that  our 
appeal  to  the  Richmond  churches  (to  send  out 
and  support  a  missionary)  will  meet  with  suc- 
cess, and  we  shall  be  permitted  to  welcome  a 
missionary  family  from  Va.  How  easily  could 
both  missionary  and  money  be  provided,  were  the 
disciples  willing.  It  is  most  distressing  to  think 
how  little  moral  power  the  vast  accessions  to  the 
Baptist  churches  bring  to  them.  This  circum- 
stance prevents  me  from  reading  the  accounts  of 
revivals  with  that  interest  I  used  to  do.  I  sus- 
pect the  piety  of  inactive  Christian  professors. 
'  By  their  fruits  ye  shall  know  them.' " 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"DEC.  19,  1843. 

On  this,  the  anniversary  of  your  birthday, 
allow  me,  my  dear  sister,  to  express  many  wishes 
for  your  happiness,  and  that  of  your  beloved 
George  and  darling  child.  May  you  yet  live  to 
see  many,  many  years,  and  as  you  grow  older, 


198  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHTTCK. 

become  riper  and  riper  for  that  heavenly  state, 
unmeasured  by  time.  How  rapidly  are  we  borne 
on  by  the  wings  of  time !  I  can  scarcely  believe 
that  you  are  twenty-two,  and  I  twenty-six  years 
old.  A  little  while  ago  we  were  children  togeth- 
er, enjoying  the  society  of  each  other,  and  that 
of  our  dear  parents,  brothers,  and  sister.  Years 
have  glided  oh,  and  the  present  one  finds  us  mar- 
ried, and  bearing  the  responsible,  but  delightful 
relation  of  mother.  Time,  however,  with  all  its 
withering  changes,  has  not  diminished  the  sis- 
terly affection  existing  between  us.  No,  dear 
sister,  though  so  far,  far  away  from  you,  and  so 
many  years  have  passed  since  I  looked  upon 
your  face,  I  still  love  you,  still  remember  you. 
It  affords  me  happiness,  too,  to  be  assured  that 
the  feelings  I  have  for  you  are  reciprocated.  In 
reviewing  our  past  lives,  do  we  not  see  the 
abounding  love  of  our  heavenly  Father  towards 
us?  How  gently,  if  at  all,  has  his  afflictive  hand 
been  laid  upon  us  !  Others  around  us  have  sick- 
ened and  died,  while  we  remain  as  monuments  of 
his  mercy  O !  may  we  not  prove  ungrateful 
monuments;  but  the  time  past  of  our  lives  suf- 
ficing us  to  have  wrought  the  will  of  the  flesh,  may 
we  now  renew  our  strength,  and,  with  determined 
zeal,  endeavor  to  glorify  God. 

I  have  a  large  and  interesting  field  of  labor 
before  me  amongst  the  soldiers'  wives  and  chil- 
dren. I  visit  them  frequently,  give  them  books, 
and  pray  with  the  sick  among  them.  They  are 
the  most  destitute  set  of  human  beings  I  ever  saw. 
Many  of  them  have  not  a  second  dress,  or  gar- 
ment of  any  kind.  I  find  use  for  all  my  old 
clothes,  and  I  have  begged  the  other  ladies  for 


EXTRACTS  FKOM  HER  LETTERS.      199 

theirs.  Money  was  given  me  to  expend  for 
them,  and  I  purchased  a  piece  of  coarse,  but 
good,  warm  cloth,  and  gave  it  to  the  little  boys 
for  j-ickets  and  trousers ;  and  their  little  counte- 
nances told  me,  that  when  they  bowed,  and  said; 
'  Thank  you,  ma'am/  they  felt  it.  The  great 
cause  of  their  distress  has  been  a  fire,  which 
broke  out  and  consumed,  not  only  their  houses, 
(which  were  made  of  matting,)  but  every  thing 
they  possessed.  They  fortunately  escaped  them- 
selves with  little  harm  to  their  bodies.  Sickness 
has  disabled  others  of  them,  who  were  not  burnt 
out,  from  working ;  so  that  altogether  they  are  in 
a  most  suffering  condition  in  this  cold  weather  — 
far  worse  than  that  of  the  slaves  in  Virginin,  not- 
withstanding the  English  speak  so  harshly  of 
American  slavery.  I  wish  they  would  cast  the 
beam  out  of  their  own  eye.  The  allowance  by 
government  for  these  poor  creatures  is  very  small 
indeed." 


(  200  ) 


CHAPTER   XI. 

1844  —  Closing  Year  of  MM.  Shuck's  Life  —  Her  C<  rresnondence  con- 
tinued —  Manner  of  spending  her  Time  —  Progress  in  the  Chinese 
Language  —  Her  Youthful  Appearance  —  The  Frigate  Brandy  wine 
—  Mr.  Walthall's  Illness  —  Beautiful  Extract  —  Ti-mutntions  of 
Missionaries  —  Allusion  to  Mrs.  Dean's  Death  —  Solemn  Anticipa- 
tions —  Remarks  concerning  them  —  Contributions  to  Mrs.  Shuck's 
School  —  Increase  of  it —  Obstacles  to  Female  Education —  Indis- 
position to  Writing  —  Opening  School-room  —  Last  Letter  to  her 
Father  —  Arrival  of  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Devan  —  Her  Father's  Picture  — 
Last  Letter  to  her  Family  —  Religious  Enjoyment  —  Note  to  Mr*. 
Keeling —  Her  last  Letter —  Remarks. 

WE  have  now  reached  the  last  year  in  the  life 
of  Mrs.  Shuck.  She  is  still  young,  riot  having 
attained  to  the  maturity  of  her  mental  powers. 
She  has  acquired  such  a  knowledge  of  the  Chinese 
language  as  enables  her  to  converse  in  it  with 
facility  and  propriety.  Having  by  long-continued 
intercourse  become  acquainted  with  the  manners 
and  customs  of  the  natives,  she  is  well  qualified 
to  conciliate,  interest,  and  instruct  them.  She  is 
placed  in  a  sphere  of  great  and  increasing  useful- 
ness, as  the  mother  of  an  interesting  family,  the 
companion  of  an  active  and  successful  missionary, 
and  the  teacher  of  a  large  and  promising  native 
school.  She  has  begun  to  reap  the  fruit  of  her 
anxious  toil.  Through  long  and  dark  years  she 
has  been  praying  and  waiting  for  China  to  be 
opened  for  the  reception  of  the  gospel,  and  pre- 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      201 

paring  herself,  by  incessant  study,  to  teach  the 
idolatrous  Chinese  the  way  of  life.  The  clouds 
are  now  dispersing.  The  heathen  are  now  be- 
ginning to  "  turn  from  dumb  idols  to  serve  the 
living  and  true  God."  The  consummation  so 
long  and  so  devoutly  wished,  seems  to  be  at  hand. 
But  God's  ways  are  not  as  our  ways. 

To  her  Sister  Susan. 

"  MARCH  16,  1844. 

I  will  now  tell  you  exactly  how  my  hours 
are  spent.  In  the  first  place,  I  must  with  shame 
say  that  I  do  not  rise  early.  Indeed  I  sleep  so 
late  in  the  morning,  now-a-days,  that  I  can  ac- 
complish" but  very  little  before  breakfast.  I  did, 
a  liWle  while  ago,  take  a  long  ride  in  my  sedan 
chair  before  sunrise,  but  I  can't  do  it  in  the  win- 
ter time.  Well,  by  ten  o'clock  my  duties  of  a 
private  and  domestic  nature  are  all  attended  to, 
and  then  I  have  ten  Chinese  lads,  and  my  own 
two  boys,  my  two  girls,  and  three  European 
children,  soldiers'  daughters,  whom  I  teach  till 
twelve  o'clock.  Then,  as  you  may  suppose,  I 
feel  tired,  and  I  get  something  to  eat,  say  a  cup 
of  tea,  and  a  waffle,  and  rest  for  half  an  hour. 
Then  I  sing,  and  rock  my  Netty  (for  she  is  still 
the  pet)  to  sleep.  I  go  around,  and  see  that 
every  thing  is  neat  and  tidy,  after  which  I  either 
read,  write,  mend  or  make  clothes,  and  attend  to 
the  instruction  of  the,  girls  in  needle-work,  &c. 
At  four,  we  dine.  After  dinner  I  generally  go  out 
to  see  some  of  my  missionary  friends,  and  spend 
an  hour.  I  often  take  my  children  with  me,  un- 
less their  papa  is  at  home,  as  I  do  not  like  to 
leave  them  to  the  care  of  the  native  servants.  I 


202  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

come  home,  we  take  tea,  and  chat  till  8  o'clock, 
when  I  hear  the  children  read  the  Bible,  and  have 
prayer  with  them.  Mr.  Shuck  is  eng  iged  at  the 
same  time,  in  another  room,  with  the  Chinese 
servants,  and  any  others  who  miy  desire  to  attend 
his  meeting.  The  children  are  generally  in  bed 
by  half-past  eight,  and  then  I  hive  a  little  while 
to  myself.  I  sometimes  visit  the  soldiers'  wives, 
pray  with  the  sick  amongst  them,  and  distribute 
Bibles  and  tracts.  I  have  now  pretty  much  given 
you  a  detailed  account  of  my  daily  occupations. 
Of  course  there  are  interruptions  sometimes,  but 
not  often.  It  does  not  seem  much,  and  yet  I  have 
no  time  to  idle.  I  forgot  to  tell  you  tint  one  Fri- 
day in  every  month  we  have  a  maternal  meeting  : 
I  take  with  me  all  my  children  but  baby." 

To  her  Sister  Isabella. 

•'MARCH,  1844. 

You  ask,  if  I  have  much  time  to  study  the 
language  ;  I  answer,  that  I  am  so  situated  as  to 
be  compelled  to  speak  Chinese  constantly.  All 
our  servants  are  Chinese,  and  we  h  ;ve  a  school 
of  twenty  boys,  who  speak  no  English,  so  that  I 
study  it  in  this  way,  which  is  perhaps  the  best. 
I  fl  ttter  myself  that  I  speak  this  1  .nguage  quite 
well;  at  least,  I  have  no  difficulty  in  understand- 
ing and  being  understood.  I  cannot  say  I  have  as 
yet  ceased  my  English  education.  I  feel  that  I  must 
exert  myself  to  acquire  information,  on  account 
of  my  boys,  who  are  fist  growing  up,  and  must 
nece.sarily  receive  much  of  their  education  from 
me.  I  ana  reading  Rollin's  Ancient  History. 
O,  I  sorrow  over  the  precious  hours  I  threw 
away  iu  my  girlish  folly !  Now  I  see  the  need 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  LETTERS.      203 

of  study.  I  feel  thankful  to  my  dear  pa'  for  his 
endeavors  to  give  n»e  a  good  education.  Ah!  he 
was  a  good  f  ither  to  me  in  every  respect.  I  feel 
his  loss,  though  I  will  not  say  loss,  —  he  is  still  my 
father,  and  his  letters  now  afford  me  comfort, 
and  his  judicious  and  affectionate  hints  are  not 
lost  upon  me,  far  away  as  I  am  from  him. 

I  was  truly  rejoiced  to  hear  of  the  conversion 
of  Solomon  —  (one  of  her  father's  servants.) 
Remember  me  to  him,  and  tell  him  I  have 
prayed  for  him,  arid  shall  continue  to  do  so.  May 
he  ever  adorn  his  profession  by  an  upright  walk 
and  godly  conversation.  How  do  Levina  and 
Chaina  get  on  ?  I  should  so  like  to  see  them ! 
Perhaps  I  'nriy,  some  of  these  days.  I  am  sure 
they  would  like  to  see  old  Henrietta  now,  with 
her  three  fine  sons,  and  sweet  little  girl ;  and  I 
do  not  feel  old  with  all  these  marks  of  old  age 
around  me.  A  short  time  ago,  I  breakfasted 
with  one  of  my  missionary  friends,  who  began  to 
joke  me  about  my  number  of  children.  One  of 
the  ladies  present  said,  '  When  I  first  came  to 
China,  and  saw  you,  I  thought  what  a  silly  man 
Mr.  Shuck  was  to  select  so  young  a  woman  to 
tnke  care  of  those  boys,'  little  thinking  that  I  was 
their  own  mother.  I  often  joke  my  husbaml  about 
this  —  he  really  looks  old,  but  I  am,  to  all  ap- 
pearance, as  young  as  ever. 

The  Brandy  wine  arrived  here  the  other  day, 
and  1  went  on  board,  and  found  a  great  many 
Virginians.  One  yrving  man,  Mr.  Walthall,  now 
very  ill,  i>  living  with  us,  who  is  acquainted  with 
cousin  Richard  Gl  tsscock.  It  was  a  great  pleas- 
ure to  see  a  person  who  knew  one  of  my  rel- 
atives." 


204  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

During  a  part  of  this  year,  Mrs.  Shuck  kept  a 
journal,  for  her  sister  Susan.  On  the  inner  side 
of  the  cover  she  penned  the  following  beautiful 
extract,  which  she  had  clipped  from  a  newspaper. 

"  I  AM.  Who  ever  conceived  a  more  beautiful 
illustration  of  this  sublime  text  than  the  follow- 
ing by  Bishop  Beveridge  ? 

/  am.  'He  doth  not  say,  I  am  their  light, 
their  guide,  their  strength,  or  tower,  but  only  "  I 
AM."  lie  sets  as  it  were  his  hand  to  a  blank,  that 
his  people  may  write  under  it  what  they  please 
that  is  good  for  them.  As  if  he  should  say,  are 
they  weak  ?  /  am  strength.  Are  they  poor  ?  / 
am  all  riches.  Are  they  in  trouble  ?  1  am  com- 
fort. Are  they  sick?  /  am  health.  Are  they 
dying  ?  /  am  life.  Have  they  nothing  ?  /  am 
all  things.  /  am  wisdom  and  power.  /  am  jus- 
tice and  mercy.  I  am  grace  and  goodness.  /  am 
glory,  beauty,  holiness,  eminency,  super-eminency, 
perfection,  all-sufficiency,  eternity  !  Jebovah,  / 
am.  —  Whatever  is  amiable  in  itself,  or  desirable 
unto  them,  that  /  am.  Whatsoever  is  pure  and 
holy ;  whatsoever  is  great  or  pleasant ;  whatso- 
ever is  good  or  needful  to  make  men  happy,  that 
lam.'" 

From  her  journal  we  shall  present  a  few  ex- 
tracts :  — 

March  28.  "  Here,  as  well  as  in  America, 
the  devil  dwells,  and  often  assaults  us.  Yes, 
we  have  our  temptations  and  our  cares ;  and  no 
matter  wnere  we  go,  though  it  may  be  to  the  end 
of  the  earth,  we  carry  with  us  a  heart  deceitful 
above  all  things,  and  desperately  wicked.  I  long 
to  be  more  conformed  to  Christ ;  but.  alas !  even 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.      205 

my  desires  are  wicked.  At  a  prayer  meeting  'a 
few  nights  ago,  one  of  the  missionaries  who  have 
lately  come  out,  remarked,  that  when  he  left 
America  he  thought  he  had  given  up  the  world, 
but  he  found  he  had  not.  He  had  his  temptations 
here  also.  His  sinful  heart  still  led  him  astray. 
It  is  very  true  missionaries  are  but  men  and 
women,  and  no  better  than  other  Christians. 
Here  we  are  surrounded  by  fashionable  society. 
We  have  invitations  to  balls  and  to  parties,  which 
of  course  we  do  not  accept.  Indeed,  I  think  we 
have  more  to  call  our  attention  to  worldly  things 
than  we  had  at  home.  /  know  I  have.  We  cer- 
tainly have  more  trials  —  our  servants  lie,  cheat, 
and  steal,  and  try  us  in  a  thousand  ways.  Our 
children  are  exposed,  in  some  measure,  to  their 
influence,  and  we  must  constantly  keep  them  with 
us,  or  know  that  they  are  learning  something  sin- 
ful from  the  servants. 

March  29.  Twelve  months  ago  this  day,  our 
house  was  visited  by  that  messenger,  which  will 
assuredly  visit  every  one  living  being,  and  which 
during  the  past  year  has  frequently  carried  away 
its  victims  from  this  city.  It  was  a  solemn  time 
—  a  husband  was  deprived  of  the  society  of  a 
dear  wife,  and  an  infant  daughter  of  a  fond 
mother.  Why  was  /  spared  ?  I  feel  humbled  in 
view  of  the  mercy  of  my  heavenly  Father.  My 
dear  Lewis  might  have  been  bereaved  of  his  com- 
panion, and  my  beloved  children  motherless.  O 
for  a  more  holy  life,  a  more  devoted  spirit,  a  closer 
walk  with  God  !  I  know  not  what  is  in  the  future — 
a  year  more,  and  the  hand  that  holds  this  pen  may 
be  pnlsied  by  death ;  the  soul  that  loves  to  hold 
converse  with  earthly  friends  may  be  reunited  with 
18 


206  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

the  loved  ones  gone  before.  Yes,  my  sister,  you 
and  /  may  have  met  in  holier  regions  above.  We 
know  not  the  changes  which  may  come  over  us 
during  this  year.  The  thought  of  what  may  be 
makes  me  sad.  But  why  should  it  make  me 
sad?  God  cannot  err,  or  be  unkind.  Then  let 
us  cheer  up,  Susan,  though  our  fondest  hopes  of 
meeting  again  in  the  flesh  be  blasted.  All  will 
be  well,  whether  we  live  or  die.  My  dear  sister, 
nine  or  ten  years  ago,  I  looked  upon  the  grave 
with  pleasure.  I  almost  longed  to  die,  for  then  I 
felt  that  I  should  be  at  rest,  and  know  no  sorrow  : 
but  I  feel  differently  now — the  cause  is  obvious. 
A  wife  and  a  mother !  How  strongly  do  these 
relations  bind  us  to  earth.!  I  feel  that  my  heart 
clings  too  fondly  to  my  children  and  my  husband; 
but  love  them  as  I  may,  I  must  give  them  up ;  I 
must  close  their  eyes  in  death,  or  they  mine. 

'Come,  my  fond,  fluttering  heart, 

Come,  struggle  to  be  free ; 
Tin. ii  and  the  world  must  part, 

However  hard  it  be ; 
My  trembling  spirit  owns  it  just, 
But  cleaves  more  closely  to  the  dust.' 

I  would  not  have  you  think  my  hcpes  are  not 
strong  in  Christ.  I  do  feel,  that  unworthy  as  I 
am,  I  shall,  through  the  merits  of  my  Saviour,  find 
acceptance.  Yes,  I  love  to  throw  myself  on  him. 
But  I  do  not  feel  willing  to  die ;  I  desire  for  many 
reasons  to  live.  I  desire  to  be  a  comfort  to  him 
who  shares  my  best  affections,  to  train  up  the  lit- 
tle ones  that  God  has  given  us  for  heaven,  and  to 
be  the  means  of  bringing  into  the  fold  of  Christ 
many  poor,  deluded  heathen.  I  wish  to  see  you 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.      207 

again.  O!  how  soon  may  all  my  wishes  be 
blasted  !  How  vain  to  wish  !  How  much  better 
to  have  no  will  of  our  own ! 

'The  Christian  should  not  have  his  lot 

Be  other  than  it  is  ; 
For  while  his  Father  rules  the  world, 
He  knows  that  world  is  his. 

He  knows  that  he  who  pave  the  best, 

Will  give  him  all  beside; 
Assured  each  seeming  good  be  asks, 

Is  evil,  if  denied. 

When  clouds  of  sorrow  gather  round, 

His  bosom  owns  no  frnr ; 
He  knows,  whate'er  Ins  portion  be, 
'          His  God  will  still  be  there. 

He  knows  it  is  a  father's  will, 

And  therefore  it  is  good  ; 
Nor  should  he  venture  by  a  wish 

To  change  it,  if  he  could.' 

The  sentiments  contained  in  the  above  lines 
are  most  beautiful.  I  admire,  and  long  to  make 
them  my  own." 

We  may  well  linger  a  few  moments  on  the 
above  pathetic  extract.  Mrs.  Shuck  seems  to 
have  a  mournful  presentiment  of  her  own  death, 
and  that  of  her  sister  Susan.  "  Yes,  my  sister, 
you  and  I  may  have  met,  before  the  clcse  of  the 
year,  '  in  holier  climes  above.' "  The  words 
"you  and  /"  were  underscored  by  her  own  hand. 
These  sisters,  the  eldest  children  in  the  family, 
grew  up  with  the  most  tender  and  endearing 
attachment  to  each  other.  Providence  early 
separated  them  ;  but  their  hearts  were  indivisible. 


208  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

Every  letter  from  one  to  the  other  breathed  senti- 
ments of  sisterly  and  Christian  affection  —  affection 
which  neither  distance  nor  time  could  extinguish 
or  weaken.  The  anticipation  of  Mrs.  S.  was 
soon  to  be  realized.  She  departed  before  the  end 
of  the  year,  and  quickly  enjoyed  the  happiness 
of  meeting  her  beloved  sister  "  in  holier  climes 
above."  We  are  reminded  of  the  pathetic  words 
of  Israel's  royal  bard,  They  "were  lovely  and 
pleasant  in  their  lives,  and  in  their  death  they 
were  not"  long  "  divided." 

Journal.  —  "  March  31.  I  feel  excessively  tired, 
having  been  from  10  o'clock  till  this  hour,  (1 
o'clock,)  engaged  in  teaching;  but  I  must  add  a 
line  or  so  now,  as  I  have  a  leisure  moment 
before  me.  I  went  to  chapel  last  night,  and 
heard  Dr.  Bridgman  on  '  Total  Abstinence.'  I 
agreed  with  him  in  all  that  he  said,  though  I  am 
obliged,  from  debility  of  constitution,  occasionally 
to  take  beer  or  wine." 

I  forgot  to  mention  that,  on  Friday  or  Saturday, 
a  young  gentleman,  Lieut,  in  the  army,  called  to 
see  the  school,  expressed  himself  as  much  grati- 
fied, and,  after  he  left,  sent  $15  for  its  benefit. 
The  friends  in  China  are  very  charitable,  and 
always  give  liberally  to  worthy  objects.  The 
father  of  this  young  man,  Major-General  D'Agui- 
lar,  had  before  sent  us  $29,  without  any  solicita- 
tion on  our  part,  which  he  begged  Mr.  S.  to  use 
according  to  his  own  wishes,  for  the  good  of  the 
cause.  We  have  handed  the  money  over  to  our 
treasurer,  Mr.  Dean,  for  the  school. 

April  4.  Three  days  ago,  a  very  gratifying 
incident  occurred.  Two  Chinese  gentlemen 


EXTRACTS  FROM  HER  JOURNAL.      209 

brought  their  daughters  to  me,  and  one  of  them  a 
niece,  also,  and  placed  them  under  my  care  ;  and 
yesterday,  another  came ;  so  that  I  have  now  six 
girls,  making,  all  together,  including  my  own, 
thirty-two  children.  Only  think  of  it,  Sue,  so 
many  mouths  to  feed ;  and  do  you  imagine  I  have 
time  to  be  idle?  I  need  not  s;iy  thit  I  feel  my 
duties  and  responsibilities  to  be  great,  but,  I  trust, 
a  great  God  will  assist  me  in  meeting  them  faith- 
fully. These  girls  came  poorly  clad,  and  I  have 
already  laid  out  ten  dollars  for  them,  and  have 
persons  at  work  to  get  them  decent  for  the  coming 
Sabbath,  when  I  shall  take  them  with  me  to 
the  chapel.  Mrs.  Devan,  of  New  York,  is  very 
kind,  and  has  sent  me  ninety  dollars  for  my 
female  school,  fifty  of  which  I  have  received,  and 
the  remaining  forty  are  on  the  way.  I  shall 
obtain  as  many  as  twenty  girls,  as  I  think  I  can 
take  care  of  that  number.  I  have  written  for  a 
young  lady  in  England  to  join  me,  and  if  she 
should  come  out,  I  shall  have  great  assistance 
from  her.  She  is  a  Baptist,  and  I  am  well  ac- 
quainted with  her  sister,  now  in  China,  and  con- 
nected with  the  London  Missionary  Society." 

From  an  article  furnished  by  Mrs.  Shuck,  for 
the  Mother's  Journal,  about  this  time,  we  select 
the  following  extract,  to  show  the  obstacles  to  the 
instruction  of  Chinese  girls. 

"  You  are,  perhaps,  aware  that  ever  since  our 
arrival  on  these  shores,  we  have  been  making 
exertions  in  behalf  of  female  instruction.  We 
have,  at  different  times,  succeeded  in  obtaining  as 
many  as  five  or  six  interesting  girls ;  but  after  they 
18* 


210  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHTTCK. 

have  been  neatly  clothed,  and  are  just  beginning 
to  improve,  their  parents  have  secretly  stolen 
them  away,  and  many  we  have  never  seen  since. 
We  succeeded  in  keeping  one  girl  three  years,  by 
paying  her  mother,  who  was  very  poor,  two  dol- 
lars per  month,  and  finding  the  girl  in  her  clothes 
and  food.  She  was  a  quick  girl,  and  had  learned 
to  read,  write,  and  compose  in  English  very 
well.  She  was  familiar,  also,  with  simple  geog- 
raphy and  history.  She  possessed  a  great 
amount  of  religious  knowledge,  though  her  heart 
was  too  hard  to  bend  to  its  holy  influence.  She 
was,  however,  taken  from  me  by  her  mother,  more 
than  a  year  ago,  and  is  to  be  married  soon  to  a 
wicked,  illiterate  youth,  who,  I  am  told,  is  already 
a  desperate  opium-smoker.  I  have  received  seve- 
ral letters  from  her.  In  one,  she  says,  '  I  cannot 
now  run  and  hop,  as  I  used  to  do,  for  my  mother 
has  bound  up  my  feet.'  I  believe  it  is  not  usual 
to  bind  the  feet  at  suph  an  advanced  age,  but  the 
father  of  the  lad  whom  she  is  to  marry  wished  it, 
and  the  poor  girl  was  compelled  to  yield  to  the 
torture.  She  is  now  fourteen  years  old.  When 
I  last  visited  Macao,  I  went  to  see  her.  She 
looked  pale  and  sickly,  and  said  she  was  in  great 
pain  with  her  feet.  Her  mother  and  friends 
upbraided  me  for  having  taught  her  that  it  was 
wrong  to  worship  idols,  for,  said  they,  '  We  can- 
not make  her  bow  to  our  gods ; '  '  neither  will 
she  work  on  the  Sabbath,'  they  continued.  I  felt 
encouraged  to  hope  that  the  seed  sown  might 
spring  up  to  the  glory  and  honor  of  God.  It  is 
by  faith  we  are  commanded  to  walk,  not  by 
sight." 


LAST    LETTER    TO    HER    StSTER   SUSAN.        211 

To  her  Sister  Susan  —  the  last  Letter  to  her. 

"SEPT.  15,  1844. 

My  dear  Sister  —  I  cannot  find  amongst  my 
unanswered  letters  one  from  you,  and  yet  it  strikes 
me,  there  is  one,  somewhere,  to  which  I  have  not 
yet  replied ;  at  any  rate,  I  suppose  you  will  not 
object  to  a  line  or  two  from  me,  though  I  may 
not  be  in  your  debt.  I  must,  before  I  proceed, 
apologize  for  writing  so  seldom.  Somehow,  for 
the  last  eight  months,  I  have  felt  a  dislike  for 
writing,  and  do  not  even  write  a  note  if  I  can  get 
my  business  accomplished  without  it.  The  rea- 
son of  this  aversion  I  know  not.  I  am  perfectly 
well,  and  go  through  a  vast  amount  of  labor  and 
fatigue  e^ery  day.  I  feel  inclined  to  perform  any 
kind  of  work,  but  writing.  Now  I  do  not  wish 
you  to  take  this  feeling  as  an  apology  exactly, 
for  I  know  I  am  to  blame  for  indulging  it.  I  love 
to  think  of  you  all,  and  often  do  I  wish  to  talk 
with  you,  but  I  do  not  derive  as  much  satisfaction 
from  writing  to  you  as  I  could  wish.  One  thing 
I  will  mention  as  somewhat  of  an  excuse.  The 
climate  this  summer  has  been  most  withering  in 
its  influence,  and  perhaps  has  withered  my  ener- 
gies :  they  may  revive  again  as  the  cold  weather 
comes.  But,  my  dear  sister,  don't  for  one  mo- 
ment think  that  my  affection  has  become  cold :  I 
love  you  as  much  as  ever,  yea,  more  than  ever,  and 
the  hours  devoted  by  others  to  sleep,  I  often  spend 
in  thinking  of  you,  and  my  other  dear  relatives 
far  away. 

We  feel  greatly  encouraged  by  the  number 
around  us  who  seem  to  be  truly  inquiring  the 
way  to  heaven ;  and  it  affords  us  happiness  not 
easily  described,  that  we  are  able  to  point  them  t  > 


212  MEMOIR    OP   MRS.    SHUCK. 

the  bleeding  Lamb  of  God.  We  are  now  realiz- 
ing some  of  those  anticipations  which  thrilled  our 
bosoms,  as  we  saw  sweet  and  endeared  America, 
with  all  its  interesting  scenes,  fade  from  our  view. 
Pray  for  us,  dear  Susan ;  we  more  than  ever 
need  your  prayers.  I  hope  you  will  excuse  me 
for  saying  that  your  dear  brother  is  more  devoted 
than  ever  to  his  labors.  Indeed,  I  feel  great 
anxiety  for  him ;  he  does  not  look  well,  and  has 
enough  labor  for  four  men  to  do. 

We  are  daily  expecting  Dr.  and  Mrs.  Devan, 
(missionaries  sent  out  by  the  Board,)  who,  I  doubt 
not,  will  prove  valuable  helpers  in  our  department. 
Our  new  school-house  is  just  completed,  and  is 
on  our  premises,  quite  convenient  to  us.  When 
it  is  opened  I  will  write  some  of  you  an  account 
of  the  services.  We  intend  inviting  Mr.  Brown's 
boys,  Dr.  Legge's,  and  Mr.  Ball's,  and  I  shall, 
after  the  dedication,  give  them  a  dinner.  My 
girl's  school  prospers.  The  girls  are  daily  im- 
proving in  their  studies,  and  in  habits  of  neat- 
ness and  industry,  in  which  they  were  sadly  de- 
ficient when  they  first  came.  When  the  Devans 
come,  I  hope  the  Dr.  will  mostly  undertake  the 
instruction  of  the  boys,  and  let  Mrs.  D.  and  my- 
self teach  the  girls.  If  so,  I  shall  take  more  girls: 
at  present  I  cannot;  my  strength  is  inadequate." 

The  Mission  School-House  at  Hong  Kong,  as 
we  learn  from  a  letter  of  Mr.  Shuck's,  published 
in  the  Bap.  Miss.  Magazine,  was  set  apart  by 
appropriate  religious  services  on  Monday  the  2!Jd 
of  Sept.  The  scholars  from  other  missionary 
schools  were  present  on  the  occasion.  Mr.  Shuck 
commenced  the  exercises  with  a  few  explanatory 


LAST  LETTER  TO  HER  FATHEB.      213 

observations,  and  then  offered  prayer ;  when  Luk- 
seen-sang,  one  of  the  native  preachers,  made  an 
address  on  the  importance  of  diligent  study.  Dr. 
MacGowan  then  delivered  an  address  on  the 
duty  of  Chinese  boys  loving  their  country,  the 
world,  and  their  God.  Luk-seen-sang  then  prayed, 
and,  after  singing  the  doxology,  Rev.  Mr.  Ball 
pronounced  the  benediction.  The  tables  were 
then  covered  with  various  kinds  of  fruits,  and  a 
blessing  asked  by  Chin-Seen,  a  native  preacher 
of  the  London  Missionary  Society;  when  all  par- 
took of  the  viands,  and  the  assembly  dispersed, 
apparently  much  gratified. 

-    The  last  Letter  to  her  Father. 

"  OCT.  28,  1844. 

My  dearest  Father,  —  Your  kind  and  welcome 
letters,  together  with  many  valuable  presents, 
reached  us  safely  on  the  22d  inst.,  by  the  hand 
of  our  dear  brother  and  sister  Devan.  Accept 
our  best  thanks,  my  dear  pa',  for  your  kindness. 
The  articles  sent  were  just  what  we  needed,  and 
had  I  been  by  your  side  when  you  procured  them, 
I  could  not  have  better  pleased  myself.  I  had 
been  so  much  excited  by  the  arrival  of  our  good 
friends,  that  I  determined  to  put  by  your  letters, 
and  the  trunk,  till  next  day ;  but  as  my  nerves 
calmed  a  little,  I  thought  I  might  venture  to  read 
one  of  twenty  letters  which  we  received.  So  I 
retired  to  my  room,  and  opened  one,  which 
chanced  to  be  from  dear  ma',  in  which  she  said, 
'  One  article  in  the  box  will,  I  presume,  please 
you  more  than  any  thing  he  could  have  sent' 
I  said  to  my  husband,  who  was  standing  by,  '  O, 
it  must  be  his  portrait !  let  me  open  the  trunk.' 


214  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

'  No !  no ! '  said  he,  '  wait  till  to-night,  when  all 
is  quiet.'  'But  I  must,  I  must,'  (not  I  will,  mind 
you.)  '  Brother  Devan  has  the  key,'  he  contin- 
ued. Off  I  went,  and  soon  prevailed  on  brother 
Devan  to  give  me  the  key,  and  the  trunk  was 
opened.  First  one  parcel,  then  another,  was  un- 
wrapped, till  at  last  I  found  the  portrait.  And 
now  you  will  wish  to  know  what  I  think  of  it. 
My  first  remarks  were,  '  'Tis  not  pa',  no,  'tis  not. 
Where  is  the  expression  of  his  countenance? 
Why,  it  is  some  old  man.'  Mr.  Shuck  then 
took  it,  and  exclaimed,  '  Why,  it  is  pa'  precisely.' 
So  you  see  we  don't  always  agree.  However, 
bro.  Devan  placed  it  so  as  to  let  the  light  fall  in  a 
certain  way  on  it,  and  I  saw  a  resemblance  of  my 
father's  face,  though  time  indeed  has  been  at 
work  on  you,  and  has  increased  mightily  the  care- 
worn look.  Dr.  Devan  thinks  it  a  good  likeness, 
and  I  love  to  look  at  it.  Yes,  I  love  to  gaze  on 
the  representation  of  that  dear  face,  which  I  shall 
never  again,  possibly,  behold  in  the  flesh.  I  prize 
it  highly,  and  consider  it  as  a  precious  gift.  O, 
if  it  could  speak,  how  much  would  I  say  to  it ! 

I  need  not  say  how  much  we  are  pleased  at 
having  Dr.  Devan  and  his  wife  as  associates  in 
our  labors.  They  are  dear  friends,  and  we  are 
comfortably  situated  for  the  present  in  the  same 
house.  That  which  will  be  occupied  by  them  is 
not  yet  ready  for  them. 

You  will  perceive  by  the  date  of  this,  that  it  is 
the  anniversary  of  an  event  which  caused  your 
breast  to  swell  with  new  and  peculiar  feelings. 
Yes,  my  dear  pa',  I  am  to-day  twenty-seven  years 
old,  fist,  fast  growing  old.  You  would  see  great 
changes  in  me  now.  I  feel  quite  old,  with  so 


LAST    LETTER    TO    HER    1 AMILY.  216 

many  olive  plants  around  me,  I  assure  you.     O 
that  I  grew  better  as  I  grow  older  ! 

And  now,  my  beloved  pa',  farewell !     May  you 
long,  long  be  spared  to  your  family,  and  to  the 
cause  of  God  !     Do  what  you  can  for  China. 
As  ever,  I  remain  your  devoted 

HENRIETTA." 

Mrs.  Shuck's  last  letter  to  her  family  was  dated 
October  30,  1844,  and  directed  to  her  step-mother, 
Mrs.  Hall. 

"  My  dearest  Ma'  —  I  felt  grieved  at  myself, 
on  reading  your  letter  to  me,  at  my  remnsness  in 
writing  to  you.  You  mention  that  my  last  was 
dated  July,  1843.  I  will  not  attempt  to  extenuate 
my  guilt.  I  confess  my  negligence,  and  beg  for 
pardon.  I  have  not,  however,  forgotten  you. 
No!  your  image  is  bright  in  my  memory,  though 
I  fear  you  do  not  look  so  young  as  you  did.  You 
mention  many  deaths  in  the  neighborhood  :  how 
truly  good  has  God  been  to  our  dear  families! 

0  that  we  might  be  humbled  in  view  of  his  mer- 
cies,   and    be  led   to   give   ourselves   entirely  to 
his  service!     But,  alas!  how  much  are  we  en- 
grossed with  the  cares  and  concerns  of  this  world  ! 

1  rejoice  to  be  able  to  say,  that  recently,  more 
than    ever,    have    I    enjoyed    the   smiles   of    the 
Saviour,  I  have  felt  so  much  happiness,  so  much 
joy,  in  committing,  all  my  cares  into  the  hands  of 
Him,  who,  1  know,  cares  for  me.     How  delightful 
to  know  that  God  is  our  Friend,  and  that  all  things 
shall    work  together  for  our  good  !     I    have    not 
been  free  from  care  and  trouble,  for  with  so  large 
a  family  as  mine,  there  must  necessarily  be  great 


216  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

anxiety ;  but,  I  trust,  I  have  been  able,  by  the 
special  aid  of  Heaven,  to  bear  up  under  all.  At 
one  time,  I  had  two  families  (missionaries)  living 
with  us,  and  thirty  children ;  besides,  1  had  to  in- 
struct the  children,  and  superintend  all ;  and  I 
often  felt  sad  and  pressed  down  with  care.  Now 
we  have  no  one  living  with  us  but  our  dear 
brother  and  sister  Devan.  She  is  a  sweet  sister. 
We  seem  to  be  agreed  on  all  points,  and  I  pray 
and  believe  that  we  shall  be  assistants  to  each 
other. 

When  I  am  laid  by,  which  will  be,  I  expect, 
in  a  few  days,  she  will  be  able  to  aid  me  very 
much.  We  do  indeed  feel  happy  in  having  them 
associated  with  us. 

And  now,  dear  ma',  I  must  say,  Farewell ! 
Write  oftener,  and  I  will  try  to  do  so  too  in 
future.  If  all  be  well,  you  shall  hear  from  me 
particularly  in  the  course  of  two  or  three  weeks 
more.  I  hope  to  have  good  news  for  you.  Pray 
for  us,  dear  ma'.  I  try  to  remember  you  ard 
yours  daily  in  nay  unworthy  prayers. 

With  love  to  all  the  family,  and  a  special  kiss 
for  my  sweet  little  sister,  (Mrs.  Hall's  youngest 
child,)  Yours  ever,  devotedly, 

HENRIETTA." 

About  this  time,  Mrs.  Shuck  .sent  a  box  of 
presents  to  her  friends  in  Virginia,  to  the  care  of 
Mrs.  Keeling.  The  sheet  containing  a  descrip- 
tion of  these  articles,  and  directions  as  to  the  dispo- 
sition she  would  have  made  of  them,  was  finished 
with  the  ensuing  quotation  :  — 

"And  now,  my  dear,  dear  friends,  good-by. 
O.  could  I  have  one  hour's  social  chat  with 


HER   LAST    LETTER.  217 

you !  How  it  would  refresh  my  soul  to  tell  you 
of  my  joys  and  trials,  and  hear  you  relate  yours  1 
But  the  thought  is  too  painful  for  me  to  dwell  on. 
I  have  parted  from  you,  and  in  all  probability  I 
shall  see  you  no  more  till  we  meet  around  our 
Father's  throne  above.  There  all  tears  shall  be 
wiped  away,  separations  known  no  more,  and  the 
song  of  '  Glory  to  God  in  the  highest,'  swell 
every  heart.  Then  let  us  take  courage,  and 
press  joyfully  on.  Soon,  very  soon,  our  race  will 
end,  and  the  prize  be  gained.  '  Be  faithful  to 
your  Creator,'  was  the  message  of  my  dying 
mother  to  me.  O,  may  I  bear  it  in  mind,  and 
finally  meet  her,  and  you,  and  rejoice  with  you  in 
heaven." 

Mrs.  Shuck's  last  letter  was  written  to  the 
Compiler  of  this  Memoir  only  a  few  hours  before 
her  death.  It  was  penned  with  great  care  and 
neatness.  We  give  it  entire. 

"  VICTORIA,  (Hono  KONG,)  Nov.  26,  1844. 
My  dear  Bro.  Jeter, 

Your  kind,  affectionate,  and  truly  welcome 
letter,  bearing  date  Dec.  7,  1843,  (nearly  twelve 
months  ago,)  only  reached  me  yesterday,  and  I 
will  lose  no  time  in  replying  to  it.  For  this  kind 
expression  of  interest  in  our  welfare,  accept,  dear 
brother,  my  grateful  acknowledgment.  I  feel 
relieved,  greatly  so,  for  I  knew  not  what  cause  to 
attribute  your  silence  to.  I  feel  happy  now  in 
the  belief  that  I  live  in  the  memory  of  one  who 
can  never  cease  to  live  in  mine.  Forgive  mo  for 
saying  thru  for  yon  I  have  ever  felt  a  sincere  and 
affectionate  regard.  I  well  remember  the  first 
time  I  saw  you,  and  assisting  my  now  sainted 
19 


218  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

mother  in  preparing  some  wine  whey  for  you,  as 
you  were  indisposed.  You  will,  perhaps,  have 
forgotten  it.  The  place,  time,  and  circumstances 
are  bright  hefore  my  mind's  eye.  You  took  me 
on  your  knee,  and  asked  me  if  I  loved  the  Sa- 
viour, and  talked  to  me  about  his  blessing  little 
children,  and  suffering  them  to  come  unto  him. 
Again,  as  I  grew  older,  you  reasoned  with  me, 
and  urged  me,  not  only  from  the  pulpit,  but  in 
the  private  parlor  at  old  Waverley,  to  repent ;  and 
'twas  you,  my  dear  brother  Jeter,  who  led  me 
into  the  liquid  grave.  O,  how  well  do  I  remem- 
ber that  day,  that  precious  day,  and  the  dear 
friends  (some,  yea,  many  of  them  now  departed) 
who  accompanied  me  to  the  water's  edge  !  Yes, 
there  are  many  pleasing  associations  in  my  life 
connected  with  you. 

You  speak  of  the  great  changes  I  should 
notice,  were  I  to  return  to  America.  Yes,  verily, 
the  young  have  become  old,  and  the  old  have 
passed  iuto  the  tomb.  Ten  years  glide  quickly 
away,  but,  as  they  glide,  cause  wonderful  changes. 
And  so  pass  our  lives :  a  few  more  years,  and  we 
shall  have  done  with  time.  O  that  we  may  work 
while  we  can,  and  \vorkfaithfully  !  You  will  re- 
joice to  hear  that  the  work  of  the  Lord  is  pros- 
pering here.  Some  have  thrown  away  their  idols, 
becoming  convinced  that  they  are  false  and  use- 
less, and  have  united  themselves  to  the  church. 
•Others  are  inquiring  into  this  new  doctrine  of 
which  they  hear;  and  we  trust  and  believe  that 
the  time  to  favor  China  is  at  hand.  Can  you  not 
exert  yourself  for  her  welfare?  Are  there  not 
some  willing  to  come,  and  spend  their  lives  in 
teaching  the  Chinese  the  unsearchable  riches  of 


BEMARES  BY  THE  COMPILER.       219 

Christ?  We  arc  very  few  in  number,  and  very 
weak,  while  the  work  before  us  is  great  and  pow- 
erful. I  have  under  my  care,  living  on  our 
premises,  thirty  children,  and,  until  recently,  have 
had  no  one  to  assist  me  in  teaching  them,  except 
a  Chinese  teacher.  Dr.  Devan  and  his  devoted 
companion  are  indeed  a  great  help  to  us.  Mrs. 
Devan  teaches  the  school,  while  the  Dr.  dispenses 
his  medicines  to  the  sick.  He  has  gone  with  my 
husband  to  one  of  the  out-stations  to-day.  They 
teach  and  heal,  and,  I  trust,  a  blessing  will  follow 
their  efforts.  We  have  never  seen  two  Christiana 
whom  we  could  love  and  admire  more.  They 
are  already  making  great  progress  in  the  lan- 
guage, and  I  do  believe  they  will  prove  a  blessing 
to  China.  They  are  Christians  of  experimental 
piety  and  wisdom,  and  were  I  to  say  all  I  think, 
I,  perhaps,  might  seem  extravagant;  so  I  forbear. 
Finally,  remember  me  to  dear  sister  Jeter,  and 
thank  her  for  her  kind  and  acceptable  present.  1 
shall,  if  I  live,  write  to  her  soon.  I  deeply  sym- 
pathize with  her  in  her  great  loss.  I  know  what 
it  is  to  lose  a  mother.  And  now  I  must  close. 
With  affectionate  regards  to  all  my  friends, 
Believe  me,  dear  brother, 

As  ever  yours,  in  the  Saviour, 

HENRIETTA  SHUCK." 

Rest,  dear  hand  ;  thy  work  is  mushed.  Thon 
hast  often,  at  the  bidding  of  a  generous  heart,  and 
under  the  guidance  of  an  enlightened  intellect, 
wielded  a  pen  to  weariness,  to  interest  and  in- 
struct the  young,  to  convey  to  friends  assurances 
of  affection  and  sympathy,  to  impart  consolation 
to  the  hearts  of  the  afflicted,  to  plead  the  cause  of 


220  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

China's  benighted  and  perishing  millions,  and  to 
exhibit  to  sinners  the  beauty,  mercy,  ;md  faithful- 
ness of  the  ascended  Saviour.  But  never  more 
shall  thou  grasp  a  pen.  For  years  thou  hast 
been  laboriously  employed  in  clothing  the  naked, 
feeding  the  hungry,  and  training  the  young  minds 
of  China  for  usefulness  and  heaven.  Now  all 
thy  toils  are  ended.  The  hand  that  greeted,  with 
so  much  cordiality,  the  missionaries  newly  ar- 
rived in  a  pagan  land,  the  stranger  from  every 
quarter  of  the  globe,  which  Providence  cast  within 
its  reach,  and  the  ignorant  and  degraded  heathen, 
will  very  soon,  cold  and  pallid,  repose  in  the 
grave.  Rest,  then,  dear  hand ;  thou  hast  finished 
thy  labors,  and  received  an  honorable  discharge. 


(221  ) 


CHAPTER   XII. 
i.        * 

Brief  Sketch  of  the  Rise,  Progress,  and  Condition  of  (he  Chine* 
BnplUt  Mission  —  Baptisms — Encouraging  Pro*|>er.U  — Mr* 
Shuck's  Prusrntimeiit  of  her  Dentil — Her  Preparation  fur  it  — 
Mr.  Shuck'*  Letter  announcing  her  Dentil  —  Extract-;  from  Obit- 
uary Nutir.es — lir.  LV  van's  Letter  to  Mr.  Hall —  Mr.  Walthall'i 
Letter  —  Conclusion  of  her  Funeral  Sermon  in  Richmond  — 
Mr.  Keeling'8  Tribute  to  Mrs.  Shuck's  Character  — Poetry  writ- 
ten on  teeing  Mr.  Shuck's  Sons  in  New  York. 

BEFORE  we  proceed  to  detail  the  closing  scenes 
in  the  life  of  Mrs.  Shuck,  it  may  be  proper  for  us 
hastily  to  retrospect  the  rise  and  progress  of  the 
Baptist  mission  in  China,  and  briefly  to  contem- 
plate its  condition  and  prospects  at  this  period, 
(the  autumn  of  1844.)  In  September,  1336,  Mr. 
Shuck  and  his  companion  reached  China.  He 
was  under  the  necessity  of  landing  his  family  in 
the  city  of  Macao  by  stealth.'  Here  he  was  care- 
fully watched  by  the  Mandarines  on  the  one  hand, 
and  the  Portuguese  officers  on  the  other.  Before 
the  work  of  missions  could  be  commenced,  a  lan- 
guage singuhr  in  its  structure,  and  very  difficult 
of  acquisition,  must  be  mastered.  This  difficulty 
in  a  good  measure  overcome,  Mr.  Shuck  was 
strictly  prohibited  by  the  civil  authority  from 
making  any  public  efforts  for  the  diffusion  of  the 
gospel.  His  labors  were  restricted  to  personal 
conversation,  and  the  instruction  of  such  persons 
as  might  visit  his  own  house.  The  numerous 
19* 


222  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

missions,  and  exhausted  condition  of  the  treasury, 
of  the  Baptist  General  Convention,  prevented  the 
Board  from  prosecuting  the  China  mission  with 
vfgor.  For  several  years,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Shuck, 
and  Mr.  Roberts,  labored  alone  in  this  vast,  but 
strictly  guarded  and  unpromising  field.  In  1837, 
the  first  Chinaman,  Ah  Loo,  was  baptized,  who, 
becoming  an  apostate,  gate  great  pain  to  the  mis- 
sionaries. Rev.  Mr.  Dean,  and  Doctors  Mac- 
Gowan  and  Devan,  as  we  have  seen,  subsequently 
reenforced  the  mission.  The  breaking  out  of  the 
war  between  Great  Britain  and  China  seriously 
threatened,  at  one  time,  its  annihilation.  Whether 
the  mission  could  be  maintained  was  long  a  doubt- 
ful question,  at  home  and  in  China.  But  the 
devoted  pioneers  in  the  evangelization  of  China, 
labored  on,  amid  discouragements  and  difficulties 
the  most  disheartening.  God,  at  length,  granted 
his  servants  light.  The  war,  in  many  aspects 
disastrous  and  revolting,  brought  some  portions 
of  China  under  British  rule,  and  prepared  the 
way  for  the  toleration  of  Christianity  by  the  em- 
peror, throughout  the  "  Celestial  Empire." 

The  following  extracts  from  the  letters  of  Mr. 
Shuck,  written  about  this  period,  and  published 
in  the  Baptist  Missionary  Magazine,  will  give 
the  reader  some  conception  of  the  prosperous 
condition  of  the  mission. 

Under  date  of  May  14,  1844,  Mr.  Shuck  wrote, 
"  God  is  manifestly  blessing  our  labors.  I  trust 
that  Christianity  has  commenced  her  onward 
march  in  this  great  land  of  heathenism. 

I  have  previously  mentioned  to  you  the  circum- 
stances of  the  conversion  of  Luk-Seen  Sang. 
He  is  an  active  colporteur,  and  valuable  assistant 


EXTRACTS   FEOM   MR.    SHUCK'S   LETTERS.     223 

in  the  mission.  His  prayers  show  that  his  heart 
is  under  the  influence  of  the  Spirit  of  God 
Three  weeks  ago  he  went  into  the  interior  for 
his  family,  taking  a  large  quantity  of  books  and 
tracts  with  him ;  all  of  which  he  put  into  circu- 
lation ;  and  preached  the  gospel  in  regions  where 
it  was  before  unknown.  He  has  just  returned, 
bringing  his  wife  and  daughter,  and  an  inquirer, 
who  is  a  literary  man  of  no  ordinary  talents. 

Last  Lord's  day,  I  had  the  happiness  of  baptiz- 
ing Che-ho,  who,  when  I  first  fell  in  with  him, 
had  been  a  Budhist  priest  for  nine  years.  He 
has  been  thirteen  months  under  close  and  daily 
Christian  instruction,  and  six  months  an  applicant 
for  baptism.  He  gives  encouraging  evidence  of 
being  a  child  of  God.  He,  when  very  young, 
lost  his  wife,  and  to  find  comfort,  resorted  to  idols  ; 
but  worshipping  them  gave  him  no  comfort.  On 
a  visit  to  Hong  Kong,  the  name  in  Chinese,  on 
the  Queen's-Road  Chapel,  caused  him  to  enter  : 
he  heard  me  preaching  in  Chinese ;  and  from 
that  hour  he  resolved  to  forsake  Budha  and  wor- 
ship the  true  God.  He  sent  for  a  younger  brother, 
who  has  also  repudiated  idols.  Now  his  father 
and  another  friend  have  taken  up  their  residence 
at  Hong  Kong,  and  both  declare  their  belief  in 
the  doctrines  of  the  true  God,  and  have  turned 
their  backs  on  idols.  Che-ho  is  a  man  of  excel- 
lent sense,  reads  the  New  Testament,  &c.,  and 
conducts  private  correspondence  with  his  friends ; 
but  is  not  a  literary  man  by  any  means.  He 
studies  every  day  with  my  teacher  a  short  time. 
He  is  a  child  of  nature,  of  sincere  and  affection- 
ate disposition,  and  very  amiuble. 

Chek-ko,  the  native  printer,  has  decided  to  en- 


224  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

ter  the  church,  and  he  too  has  lately  mentioned 
two  inquirers.  He  heard  the  gospel  nine  years 
ago  from  Leang-Afa,  and,  for  the  last  ten  months, 
has  been  in  an  interesting  state  of  mind.  Hong- 
ko  is  now  upon  his  final  trial  of  two  months  be- 
fore a  committee  of  the  church,  and  there  is  every 
prospect  of  his  being  received  in  two  weeks  from 
this  date,  as  his  trial  will  then  be  terminated. 
Asei  is  also  an  applicant  for  baptism,  and  in  some 

respects  an  interesting  one.  J ,  one  of  Mrs. 

Shuck's  little  Chinese  girls,  we  reilly  think  is 
converted.  Yong-seen-sang  and  Hen-seen-sang 
both  profess  to  believe  the  gospel,  but  are  timid 
about  being  baptized. 

I  feel  that  a  work  has  now  been  begun  in  China 
which  will  go  on,  because  it  is  the  work  of  the 
Lord.  Vast  multitudes  have  heard  and  remem- 
ber the  gospel,  and  the  hearts  of  an  honored  few 
are  receiving  it  in  faith  and  love.  Mr.  Dean  has 
a  large  and  interesting  congregation,  and  many 
more  Tiechui  people  are  securing  ground  and 
settling  here. 

Our  present  prospects  are  so  encouraging  that 
we  hope  to  have  several  more  native  pre  ichers  in 
full  employment  before  the  year  ends.  Eight  na- 
tive preachers  and  their  families  could  be  sup- 
ported for  what  one.  foreign  preacher  cnn  be,  in- 
cluding all  expenses.  What  a  difference  !  and  yet 
native  preachers  cannot  be  left  without  the  aid 
and  oversight  of  foreign  preachers. 

June  8.  On  last  Lord's  day  I  had  the  happi- 
ness to  baptize  another  Chinese  convert  of  much 
promise.  (Hong-ko,  mentioned  above.)  The 
baptism  took  place  on  Lord's  day  morning  at  7 
o'clock,  in  presence  of  a  large  number  of  wit- 


EXTRACTS    FROM    ME.    SHUCK'S    LETTERS.      225 

nesses.  I  have  three  more  natives  on  their  final 
trial  of  two  months,  and  six  other  applicants, 
nine  in  all,  under  my  immediate  care.  There  is 
evidently  a  work  of  God  going  on  in  my  Chinese 
congregation. 

July  8.  I  can  hardly  realize  the  present  posi- 
tion of  this  mission.  You  full  well  know  the 
dark  circumstances  attending  my  first  coming  to 
China,  and  my  first  few  years  of  residence  at 
Macao.  But  what  has  God  wrought?  With 
feelings  which  I  cannot  possibly  express,  I  am 
enabled  to  communicate  to  the  Board  that  there  is 
a  religious  revival  going  on  at  this  time  in  my 
Chinese  congregations !  There  is  no  stir,  bustle, 
nor  excitement;  but  the  still  movements  of  the 
Spirit  "of  God  are  evidently  upon  the  hearts  of 
between  twenty  and  thirty  different  individuals. 
Besides  the  three  lovely  converts  whom  I  have 
this  year  been  permitted  to  baptize,  I  have  nine 
others  registered  for  baptism,  and  all  of  them 
have  been  for  some  time  under  instruction.  Be- 
sides these  there  are  several  applicants  for  bap- 
tism, and  some  inquirers  who  are  not  considered 
candidates  or  applicants.  Among  the  candidates 
and  inquirers  are  six  individuals  of  fine  literary 
attainments.  The  prospect  now  is,  that  I  shall 
soon  be  able  to  have  four  pious  and  active  native 
preachers  in  the  field.  You  will  rejoice  to  hear 
that  my  teacher,  so  long  a  professor  of  Christian- 
ity, has  at  last  come  out  fully,  and  is  now  on  his 
final  two  months'  trial,  preparatory  to  baptism. 
He  is  a  man  of  superior  intellect,  education,  and 
intelligence. 

Aug.  14.  Sabbath  before  last  I  had  the  pleas- 
ure of  baptizing  two  more  interesting  native  con- 


226  MEMOIR   OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

verts,  who  hid  undergone  long  and  careful 
Christi  M  instruction  and  examination.  One  of 
these  converts  had  been  a  secretary  in  one  of  the 
provincial  government  offices  in  Canton,  is  a  well- 
educated  and  intelligent  man,  in  the  prime  of  life, 
apt  to  learn  and  apt  to  teach,  speaks  eloquently, 
and  is  already  nn  active  and  valuable  accession 
to  the  church  and  the  mission.  His  prayers  are 
so  correct  and  deliberate,  and  evince  such  Chris- 
tian humility,  as  to  afford  me  great  satisfaction 
concerning  him.  His  name  is  Kwok-he.  He 
heard  the  gospel  the  first  time  from  Luk-seen- 
sang,  my  valuable  native  preacher,  while  on  a 
visit  to  Canton.  The  other  is  named  Sei-ko,  a 
herdsman,  of  humbler  circumstances  than  Kwok- 
he,  but  an  interesting  young  man,  who  gives  us 
great  encouragement  by  his  hearty  love  and  obe- 
dience to  the  truth,  and  has  been  twenty  months 
under  close  Christian  instruction. 

Sept.  4.  Nearly  the  whole  of  last  week  was 
taken  up  in  public  and  private  examinations  of 
candidates  for  baptism.  The  cause  of  our  Master 
at  Hong  Kong  really  seems  to  be  onw.ird.  Al- 
though adding  to  my  trembling  joys,  I  had  the 
high  privilege,  on  Sunday  last,  of  baptizing  seven 
more  interesting  converts.  Five  had  been  fol- 
lowers of  Confucius,  and  two  had  been  Budhists. 
All  of  th3m,  except  one,  read  and  write  their  own 
language  ;  four  are  men  of  high  attainments  in 
the  literature  of  their  own  country,  and  all  have 
long  been  under  close  Christian  instruction,  and 
have  passed  through  repeated  and  careful  exam- 
inations. I  have  now  baptized  twelve  Chinese 
convert-i  during  the  past  eight  months  of  1844 
God  grant  thit  there  may  be  no  Judas  among 


EXTRACTS    FROM    MR.    SHUCK'S    LETTERS.     227 

them !  My  anxieties  concerning  them  are  con- 
tinual and  heavy  ;  yet,  thanks  to  the  grace  of  God, 
all  give  sitisfaction  thus  far.  Eight  or  ten  others 
afford  hnpe  and  encouragement ;  the  congrega- 
tions continue  large  and  attentive;  and  the  col- 
porteurs are  diligent,  and  are  of  great  assistance 
and  usefulness. 

You  will  rejoice  with  me  that  one  of  the  above 
seven  w  is  my  teacher,  Yong-seen-sang,  who  for 
nearly  six  years  has  proved  himself  to  be  an 
able  teacher  and  a  worthy  man.  Although  of 
unexceptionable  conduct,  and  of  about  universal 
good  report  of  those  who  are  without,  and  withal 
a  man  of  prayer,  yet  I  much  doubt  whether  he 
has  been  a  truly  converted  man  for  more  than  six 
or  eight  months.  He  has  passed  most  satisfacto- 
ry examinntions.  Lei-seen-sang  is  also  a  learn- 
ed man,  like  Yong-seen-sang,  has  a  mind  of  a 
superior  order,  and  is  a  perfect  gentleman  in 
manners,  attire,  and  appearance.  Woon-seen- 
sang  is  nlso  an  agreeable  man,  eloquent,  and  well 
educated.  Chny-seen-sang,  though  somewhat  less 
learned  than  the  above,  is  an  interesting  man, 
and  powerful  in  prayer.  Ch:ikrko  is  a  worthy 
disciple,  is  a  head  printer  and  a  paper  merchant, 
and  owns  a  share  in  a  large  passage  boat  which 
runs  between  this  (Hong  Kong)  and  Canton. 
Pang-sam  is  an  industrious  tailor,  a  quiet  and 
amiable  man,  and  a  growing  Christian.  The 
last  of  the  seven  is  Lep-wa,  f.ither  of  the  Bud- 
hist  priest  who  was  baptized,  a  simple-hearted 
and  sincere  old  man,  a  gardener,  and  owner  of  a 
small  prop?rty  in  his  native  village,  one  day's 
sail  in  the  interior  from  Hong  Kong.  He  has 
manifested  tearful  anxiety  to  understand  the 


228  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

truth ;    and    we  really  believe   he  loves   the   Sa- 
viour, although  he  does  not  read. 

At  the  same  time  and  place  as  above,  Mr. 
Dean  baptized  three  Tie'  Chiu'  men." 

We  have  detailed  mainly  the  labors  and  suc- 
cesses of  Mr.  Shuck  ;  but  Mr.  Roberts  and  Mr. 
Dean  were  equally  encouraged  in  their  efforts. 
Such  was  the  condition  of  the  China  Baptist  mis- 
sion in  the  fall  of  1844.  God  had  exercised  his 
servants  there  with  sore  trials  and  discourage- 
ments ;  but  they  had  patiently  continued  in  watch- 
fulness, prayer,  and  labors.  They  had  sown  in 
tears,  and  now  they  were  reaping  in  joy.  A 
glorious  prospect  was  opening  to  the  mission. 
The  field  was  now,  in  part,  opened  for  their  la- 
bors —  the  first  fruits  were  a  pledge  of  the  in-com- 
ing harvest  —  the  intelligence  and  respectability 
of  the  converts  inspired  high  hopes  of  their  use- 
fulness—  and  the  prevailing  spirit  of  inquiry 
among  the  Chinese  was  a  clear  indication  that 
they  were  likely  to  be  brought  under  the  influence 
of  the  gospel.  But  God  designed  to  subject  the 
faith  and  patience  of  his  servants,  especially  of 
Mr.  Shuck,  to  a  fresh  and  severe  trial. 

Mrs.  Shuck  was  approaching  the  period  of  her 
fifth  confinement.  Her  health  for  several  months 
past  had  been  unusually  good,  and  her  labors 
more  than  commonly  arduous.  She  was,  occa- 
sionally at  least,  impressed  with  an  apprehension 
that  she  should  not  survive  her  season  of  trial. 
A  day  or  two  after  her  death,  the  following  note 
was  found  among  her  papers,  hearing  evidence 
of  having  been  written  about  two  months  previ- 
ously. "I  am  so  strongly  impressed  with  the 


HER  PRESENTIMENT  OF  DEATH.      229 

idea  that  some  great  and  calamitous  event  is 
about  to  befall  me,  that  I  cannot  but  write  it  down. 
What  it  is,  God  only  knows.  I  feel  a  presenti- 
ment that  something  is  going  to  take  place,  some- 
thing dreadful.  O  Lord,  prepare  me  for  all 
thou  art  preparing  for  me  !  Help  me  to  take 
every  dispensation  of  thy  providence  as  for  my 
good."  Mrs.  Shuck's  extreme  illness  and  peril 
at  the  birth  of  her  fourth  child  might  very  natu- 
rally fill  her  with  alarm  as  to  the  result  of  her 
approaching  confinement.  But  this  dread,  what- 
ever might  have  been  its  source,  appears  not  to 
have  been  constant.  In  her  last  letter  to  her 
mother,  written  only  a  few  days  before  her  death, 
she  said,  as  we  have  already  seen,  "  If  all  be 
well,  you  shall  hear  from  me  particularly  in  the 
course  of  two  or  three  weeks.  I  hope  to  have 
good  news  for  you."  Her  letter  to  the  compiler, 
the  last  which  she  penned,  was  evidently  written 
in  a  cheerful  spirit.  The  presentiment  of  her 
death,  however,  evidently  made  a  strong  impres- 
sion on  her  mind.  In  obituary  notices  of  her, 
published  in  Hong  Kong  shortly  after  her  death,  it 
is  stated,  that  "  in  view  of  these  premonitions,  she 
became  more  fervent  in  prayer,  and  more  faithful 
in  her  work,  and  for  several  months  she  mani- 
fested a  marked  spirituality  of  mind,  and  a  lovely 
ripeness  of  piety.  She  made  her  arrangements 
in  view  of  what  she  believed  would  end  her 
pilgrimage  on  earth.  She  spoke  of  it  to  her  hus- 
band and  to  her  friends,  but  never  with  gloomy 
forebodings  —  such  was  the  activity  of  her  Chris- 
tian hopes.  Even  every  drawer,  and  all  her  little 
boxes,  with  their  various  articles,  have  since  been 
found  arranged  with  singular  neatness  and  order." 
20 


230  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

The  following  letter,  addressed  by  Mr.  Shuck 
to  his  father-in-law,  conveyed  to  her  afflicted 
family  and  the  sympathizing  community  the  first 
intelligence  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  unexpected  death. 
It  can  hardly  fail  to  touch  a  sympathetic  cord  in 
the  bosoms  of  those  who  have  experienced  similar 
afflictions. 

"Houo  KOHO,  Nov.  2D,  1844. 

Dear,  dear  Father, 

I  wrote  you  a  hasty  note  two  days  ago,  just 
as  the  mail,  via  England,  was  closing,  and  nerved 
my  bleeding  heart  to  announce  to  you  the  sudden 
death  of  our  thrice  precious  Henrietta,  your  first- 
born daughter,  the  hallowed  wife  of  my  youth, 
and  the  mother  of  my  children.  My  full  soul 
writhes  in  agony,  both  night  and  day ;  and 
although  I  believe  I  am  not  left  without  the  con- 
solations of  the  gospel,  yet  my  breast  heaves 
with  the  billows  of  sorrow,  the  floods  of  tears  run 
down  my  eyes,  tears  of  burning  anguish.  Friends 
sympathize  and  condole,  the  children  are  well 
and  singularly  quiet,  sister  Devan  overlooks 
domestic  affairs  like  an  angel  of  light,  brother 
Devan  proves  a  brother  indeed,  and  God's  prom- 
ises are  neither  few  nor  misunderstood ;  but  after 
all,  I  am  really  so  overwhelmed  that  I  fear  my 
overpowering  grief  is  unreasonable.  I  feel  like 
some  lonely  forest  pine,  scathed  and  shattered  by 
the  lightnings  of  heaven ;  my  heart  seems  swollen 
to  double  its  natural  size,  and  I  literally  gasp  for 
breath. 

I  mentioned  in  my  last  note,  that  for  six 
months  past,  and  up  to  within  three  hours  of  her 
departure,  our  precious  one  enjoyed  unusual 


INTELLIGENCE  OF  HER  DEATH.      231 

health.  Her  illness  came  on  at  10  o'clock,  on  the 
night  of  the  20th  inst.  Before  calling  the  Dr., 
she  requested  me  to  join  with  her  in  prayer ;  and, 
taking  her  hand  in  mine,  I  knelt  by  her  couch, 
and,  at  every  sentence  of  my  prayer,  she  gave  my 
hand  a  most  affectionate  pressure.  The  Dr. 
came  at  12  o'clock  at  night.  At  2  o'clock,  a 
fearful  and  sudden  prostration  took  place,  and 
every  effort,  and  prayer,  and  remedy,  proving  un- 
availing, at  3  o'clock  her  pure  spirit  winged  it3 
flight  to  the  bosom  of  her  God  and  Saviour,  whom 
she  so  ardently  loved  and  laboriously  served. 
For  months,  she  was  in  the  habit  of  expressing 
to  us  all,  in  a  singular  manner,  her  presentiments 
that  she  would  not  survive  the  close  of  the  pres- 
ent year;  but  no  gloomy  doubts  about  her  soul 
were  ever  noticed.  Her  mind  was  engaged  in 
prayer  to  the  last ;  and,  as  there  was  scarcely  a 
pain  or  a  struggle,  but  purely  sinking  and  pros- 
tration, she  literally  fell  asleep  in  Jesus,  yea, 
was  almost,  like  Enoch,  translated  for  having 
walked  with  God.  He  took  her,  in  kindness,  to 
himself,  without  the  usual  suffering  and  distress 
which  attend  the  final  pangs  of  expiring  mortali- 
ty. She  seems  to  have  passed  away  like  a 
glorious  meteor,  and  her  light  still  shineth.  Her 
countenance,  in  death,  assumed  a  heavenly  smile, 
and  her  body  was  deposited  in  the  tomb  by  the 
side  of  her  endeared  friends,  Mrs.  Dean  and  Mrs. 
Ball.  It  was,  it  is  said,  the  largest  funeral  which 
has  ever  taken  place  in  this  colony,  so  widely  was 
she  loved  and  esteemed  by  all  classes,  high  and 
low,  foreign  and  native.  The  European  police 
corps  came  and  chimed  the  sad  privilege  of 
being  permitted  themselves,  about  forty  in  num- 


232  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

ber,  to  bear  her  remains  to  the  grave.  She  is 
gone  to  the  realms  of  light,  taken  away  from  the 
toils,  anxieties,  and  ills  of  life,  with  her  Saviour 
and  her  own  fond  mother.  It  is  the  Lord  that 
has  done  it.  God,  I  know,  has  done  it  in  kind- 
ness to  her  and  to  us  all,  and  for  his  own  glory, 
and  yet  the  tremendous  stroke  almost  slays  me. 
She  was  a  most  faithful,  devoted,  affectionate 
wife  and  mother,  a  laborious  missionary,  and 
warm-hearted  friend  of  all.  Her  prayers  and 
anxious  labors  for  her  children  and  the  heathen, 
will  not  be  in  vain.  I  never  knew  one  whose 
faith  was  stronger.  She  was  a  believer  in  mi- 
nute Providence,  and  her  devotions  were  punctual, 
and  her  confidence  in  God  unwavering.  O! 
she  was  a  being  of  love,  and  a  lovely  being.  It 
would  be  almost  madness  in  me  to  attempt  to  offer 
you  and  the  family  consolation,  seeing  that  I  my- 
self am  burdened  and  smitten  to  the  dust.  O 
God,  mysterious  Jehovah,  Jesus,  Holy  Ghost, 
comfort  us  all.  Amen  and  Amen  ! 

In  haste,  but  deepest  affliction,  your  stricken 
son,  J.  LEWIS  SHUCK. 

P.  S.  I  find  myself  continually  trying  to  be- 
lieve that  she  is  really  not  gone,  but,  at  every  turn, 
I  am  reminded,  by  some  circumstance  or  article, 
that  I  shall  see  her  face  no  more  in  the  flesh. 
She  was  in  the  habit  of  using,  as  companion  to 
her  Bible,  for  a  long  time,  a  copy  of  the  Gems  of 
Sacred  Poetry,  which  I  had  presented  her.  Since 
her  demise,  I  find  in  this  little  book  whole  poems, 
verses,  sentences,  and  words,  pencil-marked,  with 
her  own  hand,  touching  death,  heaven,  &.C.,  &,c., 
and  some  of  them  turn  out  to  be  in  such  direct 


NOTICES  OF  HER  DEATH.         233 

coincidence  with  the  circumstances  of  her  end  as 
to  be  really  prophetic.  I  will  send  you  details  on 
this  subject.  I  will  write  you  again,  soon.  I 
have  named  her  darling  boy  Henrie  Fuller,  the 
first  containing  all  the  letters  of  his  sainted 
mother's  name,  but  the  last  three." 

From  the  Obituary  Notices,  referred  to  above, 
we  glean  the  following  extracts  :  — 

"  Religious  services  having  been  conducted  at 
the  house,  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Devan,  Mrs.  Shuck's 
remains  were  borne  to  their  final  resting-place. 
The  Rev.  Mr.  Brown  made  an  appropriate  address 
at  the  grave,  and  offered  prayer.  All  who  knew 
her,  loved  her.  On  the  Sabbath  following,  at  11 
A.  M.,  the  Rev.  Mr.  Gillespie  of  the  Lon.  Mis. 
Soc.  preached  at  Hong  Kong  with  special  refer- 
ence to  the  event,  from  the  text,  '  Blessed  are  the 
dead  that  die  in  the  Lord,'  &/c.,  &/c. ;  the  Rev. 
Mr.  Dean  at  night  at  the  Queen's-Road  Chapel, 
from  the  promise,  '  Lo.  I  am  with  you  alway, 
even  unto  the  end;'  and  at  Macao,  the  Rev.  Mr. 
Lowrie,  of  the  American  Pres.  mission,  from  the 
text,  '  Ye  shall  know  hereafter,'  &.c.  All  the 
Chinese  services  of  the  same  Sabbath,  in  connec- 
tion with  the  Baptist  mission,  were  made  to  bear 
directly  on  the  subject,  and  the  mysterious  Jeho- 
vah has  already  caused  good  spiritual  results  to 
ensue." 

From  the  "  Gems  of  Poetry,"  alluded  to  in  the 
postscript  of  Mr.  Shuck's  letter,  the  ensuing  beau- 
tiful stanzas,  pencil-marked  by  Mrs.  Shuck's  own 
hand,  and  adopted  as  expressing  her  own  senti- 
ments and  feelings,  are  furnished  in  the  Notices. 
20* 


234  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

In  one  place  she  appropriated  the  following  Ian 
guage  as  her  own. 

"Lord,  It  belongs  not  to  my  care, 

Whether  I  die  or  livo ; 
To  love  and  serve  thee  is  my  core, 
And  this  thy  grace  must  give. 

If  life  be  Ian?,  I  will  be  glad, 

That  I  may  long  obey  ; 
If  life  be  skort,  I  arn  not  sod  ; 

I  long  to  be  away." 

Again  she  says, 

«  O,  what  is  life .'    'Tis  like  a  flower, 

That  blossoms  nnd  is  gone ; 
It  flourishes  its  little  hour, 

With  all  its  beauties  on  ; 
Death  comes,  and  like  a  wintry  day, 
It  cuts  the  lovely  flower  away. 

O!  what  is  life?    Tis  like  the  bow, 

That  glistens  in  the  sky  ; 
We  love  to  see  its  colors  glow  ; 

But  while  we  look,  they  die; 
Life  fails  <u  soon  ;  to-day  'tis  here, 
To-morrow  it  may  disappear. 

Lord,  what  is  life  ?    If  spent  with  thee. 

In  humble  praise  and  prayer, 
How  Ion?  or  short  our  life  may  be, 

We  feel  no  anxious  care : 
Though  life  depart,  our  joys  shall  last, 
When  life  and  all  its  toils  are  past." 

Again,  she  adopted  the  following  as  her  own. 

"  My  times  are  in  thy  hands ; 

My  God,  I  tcuA  them  there ; 
My  life,  my  friends,  my  foul,  I 
Entirely  to  thy  care 


NOTICES  OF  HER  DEATH.         235 

My  times  are  in  thy  hand, 

I  always  trust  in  thee, 
And  after  death  at  thy  right  band 

I  shall  forever  be." 

She  realized  the  fulfilment  of  the  promise, 
*'  Lo,  I  am  with  you  alway,  even  unto  the  end." 
In  her  childhood,  in  her  youth,  in  \\erjourneyings, 
in  her  labors,  in  all  her  life,  and  in  her  peaceful- 
ly triumphant  death,  this  promise  was  verified. 
Those  who  witnessed  the  peculiar  smile  of  joy 
that  rested  on  her  sainted  countenance,  when  the 
pure  spirit  had  been  disimbodied,  and  life  had 
departed,  will  see  a  prophetic  interest  in  the  fol- 
lowing verse,  taken  from  one  of  the  favorite 
poems  of  her  little  book, 'every  word  of  the  fourth 
line  having  been  underscored  by  her  own  hand. 

"O  for  that  summit  of  my  wish 

Whilst  here  I  draw  my  breath, 
That  promise  of  eternal  life, 
A  gloru>*j  tnule  iit  death !  " 

Again  she  specially  marked  the  following,  as 
if  in  prediction  of  what  was  soon  in  her  own 
case  to  be  fulfilled. 

•«  f  do  remember,  and  will  ne'er  forget, 
The  dyinf  eye !    That  eye  alone  was  bright, 
And  brighter  grew,  as  nearer  death  approached.; 
As  I  have  seen  the  gentle  little  flower 
Look  fairest  in  the  silver  beam  which  fell 
Reflected  from  the  thunder-cluud  that  soon 
Came  down,  and  o'er  the  desert  scattered  far 
And  wide  its  loveliness.    She  made  a  sign 
To  bring  her  babe — 'twas  brought,  and  by  her  placed: 
Bhe  looked  upon  its  face,  that  neither  smiled 
Nor  wept,  nor  knew  who  gazed  upon  't ;  and  laid 
Her  hand  upon  it*  little  breast,  and  sought 
For  it,  with  look  that  seemed  to  penetrate 


MEMOIR   OF   MBS.    SHUCK. 

The  heavens,  unutterable  blessings,  such 

At  God  to  dying  part-nU  only  granted, 

For  infant*  left  behind  them  in  the  world. 

'  God  keep  my  child  ! '  we  heard  her  say,  and  hrard 

No  tnore.    The  angel  of  the  covenant 

Was  come,  and  faithful  to  hi*  promise  stood 

Prepared  to  walk  with  her  through  death's  dark  vale. 

And  now  her  eyes  grew  bright,  and  brighter  still, 

Too  bright  for  oura  to  look  upon,  suffused 

With  many  tears  ;   and  closed  without  a  cloud, 

They  set  as  *cu  the  morning  star,  which  goes 

Not  down  behind  the  darkened  west,  nor  hides 

Obscured  among  the  tempests  of  the  sky, 

But  melts  away  into  the  light  of  heaven." 

The  death  of  Mrs.  Shuck  awakened,  both  in 
China  and  in  this  country,  among  her  acquaint- 
ances, a  lively  sympathy  on  behalf  of  her  bereaved 
and  deeply-afflicted  family. 

At  a  meeting  of  the  China  mission,  convened 
for  the  special  purpose,  Dec.  4,  1844,  the  follow- 
ing resolutions,  proposed  by  the  Rev.  Mr.  Dean, 
and  seconded  by  the  Rev.  Dr.  Devan,  passed 
unanimously :  — 

"  Resolved —  1.  That  the  mysterious  dispensa- 
tion of  divine  Providence  in  the  removal  of  our 
beloved  sister  Shuck,  is  viewed  by  this  mission 
as  a  most  afflictive  event,  inasmuch  as  it  has 
bereft  her  fond  husband  of  an  affectionate  wife 
and  faithful  helper,  her  five  young  children  of  a 
devoted  mother  and  spiritual  guide,  and  the  mis- 
sion of  one  of  its  brightest  ornaments,  and  most 
valued  members ;  — 

2.  That  while  we  ascribe  wisdom  and  good- 
ness to  the  providence  which  we  cannot  compre- 
hend, it  is  our  privilege  to  weep  with  those  who 
weep,  and  that  we  do  most  sincerely  sympathize 
with  our  bereaved  brother,  and  most  tenderly  feel 
for  his  motherless  children,  while  we  pray  that 


DR.  DEVAN'S  LETTER.  237 

this  sore  chastisement  may  be  sanctified  to  the 
spiritual  good  of  himself  and  family ;  and  that 
the  sudden  removal  of  another  member  of  this 
mission  is  a  solemn  call  upon  those  who  remain 
to  be  more  humble-minded,  more  diligent  in  duty, 
and  more  watchful  in  prayer,  that  we  may  be 
also  prepared  for  the  coming  of  our  Lord." 

Dr.  Devan,  just  one  month  after  Mrs.  Shuck's 
departure,  addressed  to  Rev.  Mr.  Hall  the  follow- 
ing letter  of  affectionate  condolence  :  — 

"VICTORIA,  (HONG  KONG,)  DEC.  26,  1844. 
My  dear  Bro.  Hall, 

It  is  with  melancholy  pleasure  I  recommence 
a  line  to  you.  In  accordance  with  my  promise,  I 
had  already  completed  a  letter  to  you,  which  I 
kept  by  my  side,  until  after  the  confinement  of 
sister  S.  But  the  dreadful  issue  was  such,  that 
would  not  justify  sending  you  a  scrawl  in  such  a 
playful  style  as  that  in  which  I  wrote,  I  com- 
mitted it  to  destruction,  and  here  commence  anoth- 
er. We  found  sister  S.  and  family  on  our  arrival 
quite  well  and  happy,  and  they  extended  to  us  a 
most  hearty  welcome,  and  we  felt  ourselves  at 
home.  The  gratification  which  the  likeness  of 
yourself  afforded  sister  S.  was  indeed  great — her 
only  longing  in  that  respect  was  that  she  might  have 
the  miniatures  of  the  rest  of  the  family.  Her 
happiness  now,  however,  is  far  greater  in  con- 
templating the  lineaments  of  her  own  dear  heav- 
enly Father,  and  the  general  assembly  of  the  first- 
born, where  separation  is  no  more.  O  that  we 
also  may  reach  that  glorious  home,  and  join  in 
the  song  of  redeeming  love !  There  are  many 


238  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

real  evidences  of  a  kind  Providence  attendant 
upon  her  removal,  two  of  which  bear  with  me 
while  I  mention. 

1st.  She  was  taken  immediately  from  Christian 
work  to  Christian  joy.  A  short  three  hours  were 
all  that  elapsed  between  doing  the  work  of  the 
Lord  on  earth,  and  reaping  its  reward  in  heaven. 

2d.  Of  all  the  departures  from  life  that  I  have 
witnessed,  my  memory  does  not  serve  me  with 
one  that  was  attended  with  less  physical  suffer- 
ing. But,  furthermore,  her  removal  was  exactly 
the  kind  that  the  most  perfect  wisdom  would  have 
devised  in  order  that  it  might  be  attended  with 
the  least  interruption  to  the  mission.  Had  she 
been  long  sick,  her  affectionate  husband  would 
have  been  incapacitated  to  discharge  the  numer- 
ous and  weighty  responsibilities  that  rest  upon 
him,  and  the  mission  would  have  greatly  suffered. 
Whereas,  in  the  evening  of  Friday,  the  work  of 
the  mission  was  performed,  and  on  the  morning 
of  Wednesday,  no  interruption  was  perceived  in 
the  movement  of  our  operations,  though  in  that 
interval  one  of  the  most  important  instrumentali- 
ties the  Lord  had  taken  to  himself.  The  bleed- 
ing hearts  she  has  left  the  eye  of  Omniscience 
only  knows ;  and  yet,  my  brother,  we  sorrow  not 
as  those  who  have  no  hope  :  it  is  her  gain,  and 
she  is  happy ;  and  as  for  the  cause,  why  should 
we  mourn  over  the  loss  that  has  experienced  ?  It 
is  the  Lord's  cause,  and  he  has  done  the  deed. 
Does  he  not  know  what  is  best  for  his  own  cause  T 
Certainly. 

I  remain  yours,  very  truly, 

T.  T.  DEVAN." 


MR.  WALTHALL'S  LETTER.  239 

Mr.  Walthall,  the  young  Virginian,  belonging 
to  the  frigate  Brandywine,  who  was  mentioned 
in  the  preceding  chapter  as  being  sick  in  the 
family  of  Mr.  Shuck,  on  receiving  the  painful 
intelligence  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  death,  sent  to  her 
father  a  most  consolatory  and  gratifying  letter, 
which  we  take  the  liberty  of  inserting  in  this 
Memoir. 

"  NORFOLK,  ARPIL  5,  1845. 
Rev.  and  dear  Sir, 

Although  personally  a  stranger,  I  should  do 
great  injustice  to  my  own  feelings,  were  I  to 
neglect  writing  to  you  under  the  affliction  occa- 
sioned by  the  death  of  tny  dear  friend,  your 
daughter,  Mrs.  Shuck.  It  is  not,  my  dear  sir, 
as  a  mere  matter  of  form,  or  courtesy,  that  I  ad- 
dress you,  for  I  well  know  how  unavailing  the 
language  of  such  must  be  to  one  who  has  lost  a 
relation  so  near,  so  loved,  and  so  worthy  of  love. 
But  it  is  a  relief  to  my  own  feelings,  and  it  is  in 
some  measure  complying  with  a  request  contained 
in  the  last  note  which  I  ever  received  from  her, 
which  I  will  give  in  her  own  words  —  'Should 
you  ever  see  any  of  my  beloved  relations,  tell 
them  all  you  can  of  me  and  mine.  Tell  them 
we  are  happy,  very  happy,  though  far  from  them ; 
happy,  because  engaged,  we  believe,  as  God  would 
have  us.'  Twelve  months  ago,  I  was  lying  in 
Mr.  Shuck's  house,  in  what  appeared  to  be  the 
last  and  lowest  stage  of  a  long  and  lingering 
disease  —  prostrate  and  helpless,  and  almost  mo- 
tionless and  speechless.  Your  loved  and  lamented 
daughter  was  then  my  friend,  companion,  con- 


240  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

fidant,  and  nurse.  Our  conversation  at  those 
times  was  chiefly  on  two  subjects,  which  were  to 
us  of  mutual  interest  —  Virginia,  the  common 
mother  of  both,  the  home  with  all  the  cherished 
associations  of  the  past,  which  lay  behind  us ; 
and  the  still  higher  theme  of  that  heavenly  home 
before  us,  where  we  humbly  hoped  to  meet  in 
future.  Vividly  and  distinctly  as  I  can  call  her 
to  mind,  on  some  occasions  standing  in  tears  by 
what  all  then  supposed  to  be  my  death-bed,  it  ia 
difficult  to  realize  the  changes  which  in  this  brief 
period  have  occurred  to  us  both.  A  merciful 
Providence  has,  contrary  to  all  expectation  and  all 
human  probability,  restored  me  to  a  home,  and  to 
friends  whom  I  had  never  thought  to  meet  on 
earth ;  and  who  can  say  how  much  of  this  won- 
derful and  almost  miraculous  deliverance  may  be 
ascribed  to  the  prayers  of  her,  for  whom  we  have 
every  reason  to  believe  he  has  wrought  a  change 
that  is  far  more  happy  and  glorious  ? 

Pardon  me,  dear  sir,  for  having  spoken  so  much 
of  myself.  My  recollections  of  Mrs.  Shuck  are 
so  intimately  interwoven  with  my  own  personal 
experience,  that  it  is  almost  impossible  to  sepa- 
rate them.  It  is  in  vain  to  endeavor  to  express 
our  feelings  by  words  on  such  an  occasion,  and 
I  cannot,  therefore,  better  conclude  than  by  giving 
you  an  extract  from  another  of  her  notes,  which 
now  lies  open  before  me,  and  which  I  have  often 
read  of  late.  '  Farewell,  farewell ;  I  trust,  if  I 
see  you  no  more  in  this  world,  that  we  shall  meet 
at  the  right  hand  of  God,  where  there  will  be 
no  more  sickness,  no  more  sorrow,  and  parting 
sounds  be  heard  no  more.'  That  such  may  be 
the  happy  lot  of  her,  of  you,  and  of  me,  with  all 


FUNERAL    SERMON.  241 

who  love  the   Saviour  in  sincerity  and  truth,  is 
the  prayer,  dear  sir,  of 

Yours,  very  respectfully  and  truly, 

W.  T.  WALTIIALL." 

Soon  after  the  news  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  death 
was  received  in  this  country,  the  event  was  im- 
proved in  a  sermon  delivered  to  a  large  congrega- 
tion, on  Lord's  day  afternoon,  in  the  First  Bap- 
tist Church,  Richmond,  by  the  compiler  of  this 
Memoir,  from  the  text  which  the  Rev.  Mr.  Gil- 
lespie  used  on  the  same  occasion  in  Hong  Kong, 
Rev.  xiv.  13.  "Blessed  are  the  dead,"  &,c.  The 
writer  hopes  he  will  be  excused  for  introducing 
•  he  closing  paragraph  of  the  sermon. 

"  In  conclusion,  dear  brethren,  let  us  seek  to 
derive  personal  profit  from  the  death  of  our  es- 
teemed sister.  She  was  a  member  of  this  church, 
and  never  ceased  to  feel  a  lively  interest  in  its 
prosperity.  In  the  Sunday  School  connected  with 
it,  she  was  a  teacher.  To  many  of  you  she  was 
personally  known,  and  to  some  most  tenderly  at- 
tached. But  her  connections  on  earth  are  all 
dissolved.  Her*  membership  is  transferred  from 
the  militant;  to  the  triumphant  church.  To  the 
sisters,  especially  the  young,  I  trust  her  sacrifices, 
and  generous  labors,  and  consistent  piety,  will  af- 
ford an  instructive  lesson.  You  may  never  be 
called  to  be  missionaries;  but,  living  in  a  world 
filled  with  sin  and  smitten  with  woe,  you  are  sol- 
emnly called  to  employ  your  powers  in  doing 
good.  Let  the  world  be  better  and  happier  for 
your  example,  your  labors,  and  your  prayers. 
21 


242  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

If  I  address  any  of  her  Sunday  School  scholars 

—  her    schoolmates  —  her  companions  —  her    ac- 
quaintances, or  any  other   persons,  who  are  not 
'  in  Christ   Jesus,'   not  vitally    united   to  him,  I 
implore  you   by  the  lovely  example   and   fervent 
prayers  of  our  departed  friend,  and,  higher  still, 
by  the  tears  and  blood  of  Christ,  and  by  the  rest 
and  reward  of  heaven,  to  begin,  without  delay,  a 
life  of  piety.      Ah,  could  her  seraphic  spirit  re- 
turn, in  what  strains  of  surpassing  fervor  would 
she  urge  you  to  '  seek  first  the  kingdom  of  God 
and   his   righteousness'  !     I    address   you  in  her 
behalf — I   beseech  you,  as  you  value  your  souls 

—  as  you  would    escape  an  eternity  of  helpless, 
hopeless  woe  —  as  you  would  rest  from  your  labors 
and  receive  a  divine  reward,  to  commit  yourselves 
to  God,  in  well-doing,  as   unto  the    hands  of  a 
faithful  Creator. 

God  grant  that  unto  us  all  may  be  '  ministered 
an  entrance  abundantly  into  the  everlasting 
kingdom  of  our  Lord  and  Saviour  Jesus  Christ.' 
Amen." 

The  following  tribute  to  the  worth  of  Mrs. 
Shuck,  from  the  pen  of  the  Rev.  H.  Keeling, 
first  appeared  in  the  Christian  Index,  Ga.  It  has 
already  been  seen  in  this  volume,  that  between  the 
departed  missionary  and  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Keeling 
there  sprang  up  the  most  cordial  friendship, 
which  wis  ripened  by  a  frequent,  free,  and  affec- 
tionate correspondence,  maintained  between  them 
during  the  whole  period  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  resi- 
dence in  the  Eist.  None,  beyond  the  circle  of 
her  near  relatives,  more  keenly  felt,  and  more 


TRIBUTE    TO    HER    CHARACTER.  243 

deeply  deplored,  her  early  death,  than  did  her 
well-tried  friends,  Mr.  and  Mrs.  Keeling.  Let 
Mr.  Keeling  give  utterance  to  the  feelings  of 
their  hearts  on  this  sad  occasion,  and  the  estimate 
which  they  formed  of  Mrs.  Shuck's  character  and 
worth. 

"  MRS.  HENRIETTA  H.  SHUCK.  Information  in 
letters  from  Rev.  Jehu  L.  Shuck,  our  esteemed 
missionary  at  Victoria,  Hong  Kong,  China,  reach- 
ed our  family  a  few  days  ago,  in  Richmond,  Va., 
that  this  much-loved,  noble,  useful  lady  had 
closed  her  sufferings  and  labors  en  earth.  It  has 
been  years  since  the  occurrence  of  any  event  so 
painful  to  ourselves  as  this ;  but  it  is  combined 
with  pleasing  recollections  and  anticipations.  She 
was  a  beloved  pupil  of  ours  until  her  marriage, 
the  ceremony  of  which  it  was  our  pleasure  to 
perform ;  and  our  intimacy  with  her  enables  us 
advisedly  to  say,  she  was  one  of  those  happy  few 
who  seemingly  would,  if  they  were  translated 
thither  with  all  their  imperfections,  scarcely  inter- 
rupt the  harmony  of  heaven.  Ten  short  years 
have  rolled  away  since  herself,  her  devoted  hus- 
band, and  brother  and  sister  Davenport,  gave  the 
parting  hand  to  their  parents,  and  to  the  weeping, 
rejoicing  churches  in  Richmond. 

It  would  seem  strange  that  just  when  we  be- 
come qualified  to  be  eminently  useful,  it  is  then, 
at  that  very  time,  that  we  are  called  away.  Mrs. 
Shuck  could  read,  write,  and  speak  the  Chinese 
language :  her  heart  was  deeply  imbued  with  the 
spirit  of  missions,  the  spirit  of  philanthropy,  and 
of  the  gospel ;  and  she  was  already  wielding  an 


244  MEMOIR   OF   MRS.    SHUCK. 

almost  incalculable  influence.  But  she  is  called 
away.  Such  events  are  common,  not  strange;  a 
plain  intinrrition  that  this  life  is  only  preparatory, 
and  that  God  has  services  of  a  higher  order  for 
his  people  above. 

Afflicted  husband,  children,  parents,  pupils, 
mission,  church,  friends  —  all!  Peace,  be  still! 
It  is  the  Lord ;  let  him  do  whatsoever  seemeth 
him  good.  —  Departed  saint!  thy  little  ones  will 
find  a  second  mother  in  Mrs.  Doctor  Devan. 
The  work  begun  by  thyself  here  will  advance. 
Thou  hast  given  to  the  ball  an  impulse  which 
will  never  be  counteracted,  but  constantly  accele- 
rated. And  for  ourselves,  personally,  one  of  our 
greatest  consolations  is,  that  we  hope  soon  to 
enjoy  thy  society  in  brighter  worlds,  amid  still 
nobler  services.  Although  not  quite  fifty  winters 
have  bleached  our  locks,  we  seem  to  have  lived  a 
hundred  nnd  fifty.  We  have  still  on  earth  as 
many  friends  as  most  people,  but  a  great  majority 
of  them  have  gone  to  the  skies.  We  hope  soon 
to  rejoin  them ;  and  we  will  teach  our  dear  little 
granddaughter,  thy  namesake,  to  follow  thy  bright 
example,  and  come  after  us. 

H.  K." 

Mr.  Shuck  was  under  the  painful  necessity  of 
sending  his  two  oldest  children  to  the  U.  States. 
They  left  China  early  in  the  yeir  1845,  and 
about  the  beginning  of  summer  landed  at  N.  Y. 
A  sight  of  the  motherless  boys,  far  from  their 
father,  cilled  forth  from  some  feeling  heart  the 
subjoined  beautiful  and  pathetic  effusion,  which 
was  first  published  in  the  Baptist  Advocate,  N.  Y 


POETRY  ON  SEEING  HER  SONS.      245 

New  York,  June  17, 1845. 

" '  God  blew  the  lads ! '  deprived  of  mother's  cure, 
A  guard  of  love  for  which  earth  ne'er  can  find 
A  substitute-.    No !  search  the  earth  around, 
From  east  to  west,  north  ward  or  southward  go, — 
Tin  matchless! 

Far  o'er  ocean's  rolling  wave, 
In  peace  Aer  body  lies,  and  moulders  bark 
To  mother  Earth.    Her  spirit,  near  the  throne, 
A  seraph  !    Decked  with  robe  of  glorious  white, 
Rest*,  ic»>.  from  labor,  and  her  works  succeed. 
Fond  sympathy  will  weep, —  who  checks  the  tear!  — 
As  on  her  loved,  sweet  boys  we  gaze,  und  think 
Of  her  who's  gone, —  still  more  of  Aim,  alone, 
On  heathen  shore.    Talk  ye  of  sacrifice  ! 
Who,  in  your  parlors,  lolling,  roll  in  wealth, 
And  give  (I  blush  to  say  it,  yet  'tis  true) 
One  half  of  what  ye  might  bestow,  nor  feel 
The  gift  i    A  sacrifice  !  acceptable  ! 
No  !    'Tis  no  offering  !  but  a  pittance  bare. 
Would  you  a  lesson  learn  of  sacrifice? 
Go,  see,  on  yonder  deck,  the  father  weep  ; 
Deprived  of  her  he  loved  more  than  himself. 
What  can  be  do  with  children  in  a  land 
Where  every  sin  and  crime  stands  out  to  view 
To  poison  their  young  minds  eternally  ? 
Ah  !  they  must  part.    Though  like  a  sword  which  cute 
His  heartstrings,  does  he  feel  the  blow.    They  must 
The  last  farewell !    O,  spare !    O,  must  it  be .' 
To  part  fur  life !     From  those  who,  since  their  birth. 
Were  dandled  on  bis  knees,  fondly  caressed, 
And  nursed  with  tender  care  ?    From  his  embrace 
Must  they  be  torn  away  ?    Yes,  yes  !  farewell ! 
'  For  thee  I  make  the  sacrifice,  my  Lord.' 
Thy  will  is  mine,  though  flesh  would  call  it  hard. 
Then,  one  more  kiss !    Farewell !    Farewell !  " 


A  plain  granite  slab  is  preparing  to  mark  the 
spot  where  repose  the  remains  of  Mrs.  Shuck. 
This  hallowed  spot  will  be  dear  to  future  mis- 
sionaries, and  unborn  generations  of  Christian 
Chinese  will  turn  to  it  with  a  grateful  reinem- 
21* 


246  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

brance  of  her  labors  and  her  character,  to  read 
the  following  inscription  :  — 


HENRIETTA, 

FIRST  AMERICAN  FEMALE  MISSIONARY  TO  CHINA, 
DAUGHTER  OF 

The  Rev.  Addison  Hall,  of  Virginia,  United  States 

CON8OET  OP 
THE  REV.  J.  LEWIS  SHUCK,  MISSIONARY  TO  CHINA 


(  K     M     1IIK 


American  Baptist  Board  for  Foreign  Missions. 

She  was  born  October  28,       1817. 
Married  8ih  September,  1835. 

Arrived  in  China  September,  1838. 

In  the  prime  of  life,  in  the  midst  of  her  labors,  and  in 

the  meridian  of  her  usefulness,  suddenly, 

but  peacefully, 

SHE  DIED  AT  HONG  KONG,  NOVEMBER  27,  1844, 

AGED  27  YEARS. 
Hallowed  and  blessed  is  the  memory  of  the  good. 


(247) 


CONCLUSION. 

Mr*.  Shuck's  Personal  Appearance  —  Her  Natural  Disposition  — 
Her  Mental  Qualities  —  Quickness  of  Perception  —  Notes  of  a 
Sermon  —  Literary  Attainments  —  Her  Religious  Character, 
symmetrical. 

IN  person,  Mrs.  Shuck  was  below  the  ordinary 
stature,  in  the  highest  health  weighing  but  little 
more  than  one  hundred  pounds,  and  frequently 
much  Jess.  Her  frame  was  delicate,  and  her 
constitution  fragile.  With  dark  complexion, 
dark  and  piercing  eyes,  and  symmetrical  features, 
she  was  somewhat  handsome.  Her  temperament 
was  ardent,  and  her  spirits  naturally  elastic, 
cheerful,  and  gay.  For  nothing,  perhaps,  was 
she  so  much  distinguished  as  the  affectionateness 
of  her  disposition.  She  was  a  lady  of  large 
heart.  Never  have  we  known  a  more  devoted 
daughter,  a  more  faithful  sister,  or  a  more  sympa- 
thizing friend.  She  always  won  the  hearts  of 
her  associates.  Her  teachers,  classmates,  and 
acquaintances  all  loved  her.  She  cheerfully  paid 
the  price  of  friendship ;  gained  friends  by  show- 
ing herself  friendly. 

Mrs.  Shuck  possessed  not  a  brilliant,  but  good 
intellect.  She  was  not  endowed  with  genius,  but 
with  a  well-balartced  mind.  Among  her  mental 
qualities,  quickness  of  apprehension  was  the  most 


248  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

remarkable.  Her  intellectual  efforts  seem  never 
to  have  cost  her  any  labor.  When  her  mind  was 
set  in  motion,  her  thoughts  and  words  flowed 
spontaneously,  and  as  long  as  she  had  use  for 
them.  Her  letters  were  evidently  penned  with 
rapidity,  and  without  one  moment's  premeditation. 
As  illustrative  of  the  quickness  of  her  mental 
operations,  we  may  mention  the  following  case : 
On  one  occasion,  her  husband  complained  of 
weariness,  and  an  incapacity  to  prepare  for  a  pul- 
pit service  which  he  was  engaged  to  perform. 
She  playfully  proposed  to  compose  a  sermon  for 
him.  Without  a  minute's  delay,  she  took  a  sheet 
of  paper  and  her  pencil,  and  having  selected  for 
the  text  these  words,  "  /  pray  thee,  have  me  ex- 
cused," began  the  sermon  as  follows :  "  Numer- 
ous as  are  the  excuses  which  sinners  make  when 
urged  to  embrace  the  gospel,  they  may  all  be 
reduced  to  three.  Thejirst  is,  that  they  have  no 
time  to  attend  to  religion  ;  the  second  is,  that  they 
do  not  know  how  to  become  religious ;  and  the 
third  is,  that  they  are  not  able  to  become  so. 
Want  of  time  —  want  of  knowledge  —  or  want  of 
power  is  pleaded  by  all.  Foreseeing  that  they  would 
make  these  excuses,  God  determined  that  they 
should  have  no  reason  to  make  them.  By  giving 
them  the  Sabbath,  he  has  allowed  them  time  for 
religion  —  by  giving  them  his  word,  and  messen- 
gers to  explain  it,  he  has  taken  away  their  excuse 
of  ignorance  —  and  by  offering  them  the  assistance 
of  his  Holy  Spirit,  he  has  deprived  them  of  the 
pretence  of  inability;  and  thus  he  has  obviated 
all  their  excuses,  and  at  the  last  day  every  mouth 
will  be  stopped,  and  the  whole  world  stand  guilty 


HER    LITERARY    ATTAINMENTS.  249 

before  God."  The  above  is  a  literal  extract  from 
Mrs.  Shuck's  notes  in  pencil  mark.  She  con- 
tinued her  remarks  through  several  pages,  but  in 
such  a  style  as  to  show  clearly  that  she  did  not 
excel  in  writing  sermons.  We  know  not  how 
much,  or  whether  at  all,  she  was  aided  by  her 
memory  in  preparing  thevabove  synopsis  of  her 
sermon ;  but  we  are  quite  sure  that  we  have  heard 
sermons  from  preachers  of  reputation,  whose 
notes  could  not  lay  so  good  a  claim  to  originality, 
simplicity,  and  adaptation  to  usefulness,  as  those 
of  Mrs.  Shuck. 

Mrs.  Shuck's  literary  attainments  were  highly 
respectable.  It  should  be  remembered  that  she 
died  at  an  age  at  which  most  writers  do  not  begin 
to  distinguish  themselves.  In  her  letters  pub- 
lished in  the  Memoir,  the  compiler  felt  at  liberty 
to  correct  only  such  errors  as  were  obviously  the 
result  of  haste  or  negligence.  They  are  mostly 
published  just  as  they  came  from  her  swift-mov- 
ing pen. 

Mrs.  Shuck  was  eminently  a  religious  woman. 
All  her  letters,  her  journals,  and  her  most  famMiar 
and  ordinary  notes,  breathe  a  pious  spirit.  Reli- 
gion exerted  a  controlling  influence  over  her  life. 
In  all  events,  whether  prosperous  or  adverse,  she 
saw  and  acknowledged  the  hand  of  Jehovah. 
Whether  she  ate  or  drank,  or  whatsoever  she  did, 
all  was  done  for  the  glory  of  God.  One  who 
had  witnessed,  in  the  beginning  of  her  Christian 
life,  the  fervency  of  her  zeal,  and  the  predom- 
inance always  accorded  by  her  to  religious  duties 
and  interests,  would  have  been  ready,  even  in  the 
absence  of  censoriousness,  to  pronounce  her  en- 


250  MEMOIR    OF    MRS.    SHUCK. 

thusiastic,  and  to  anticipate  a  great  change  in  her 
spirit  and  deportment  after  the  effervescence  of 
youth,  and  the  short-lived  ardor  of  her  novitiate, 
had  passed  away.  But  he  would  have  been  ut- 
terly mistaken.  The  flame  of  her  zeal  was  fed 
by  oil  which  an  invisible  hand  furnished.  Let 
the  candid  reader  contemplate  her  through  years 
of  exhausting  and  uncomplaining  toil ;  in  suffer- 
ings, various  and  acute,  without  murmuring  or 
despondency ;  several  times  in  the  near  prospect 
of  death,  not  only  without  terror,  but  buoyant 
with  hope,  and  full  of  joy  ;  always  cheerful,  de- 
vout, and  seeking  to  glorify  God,  and  decide 
whether  her  religion  was  not  more  than  form  and 
ceremony,  the  romance  of  youth,  and  the  impulse 
of  a  transient  excitement.  Her  religion  was  one 
of  principle.  It  subordinated  all  her  powers,  time, 
and  influence  to  the  divine  will  and  glory. 

There  was  in  the  religious  character  of  Mrs. 
Shuck  a  striking  and  beautiful  symmetry.  In 
her  character  there  was  a  happy  combination  of 
knowledge,  feeling,  and  activity.  Her  knowledge 
did  not  degenerate  into  fruitless  speculation,  her 
feeling  into  wild  enthusiasm,  nor  her  activity  into 
misdirected  adventures.  She  was  zealous,  but 
her  zeal  was  tempered  with  discretion  ;  she  was 
devout,  but  her  devotion  was  the  offspring  of 
knowledge;  she  was  useful,  but  her  usefulness 
was  coupled  with  humility.  Whether  we  con- 
template her  as  a  lady,  gracing  the  social  circle  — 
as  a  mother,  sedulously  training  her  children  for 
heaven  —  as  a  Christian,  meekly  and  faithfully 
copying  the  bright  example  of  her  Saviour  —  or  as 
a  missionary,  laboriously  fulfilling  the  duties  of 


HER    RELIGIOUS    CHARACTER.  2-">l 

her  important  station,  we  cannot  but  approve  and 
admire  her  character.  But  her  career  was  brief 
and  bright,  her  end  peaceful,  and  her  reward,  we 
doubt  not,  glorious.  The  Lord  took  her,  before 
the  noontide  of  her  influence  and  usefulness,  and 
we  humbly  submit.  "  Shall  not  the  Judare  of  all 
the  earth  do  right?" 


CATALOGUE 


OF  VALUABLE  WORKS  PUBLISHED  BT 

GOULD,    KENDALL    AND    LINCOLN, 

RO.    6«,    WASHINGTON    STRUT. 

BOSTON. 


THE  attention  of  the  public  1«  invited  to  an  examination  of  the  merits  of  the 
works  described  In  this  Catalogue,  embracing  valuable  contribution!  to  General 
Literature.  Science,  and  Theology. 

IU-«i'le«  their  own  publications,  they  hare  a  general  assortment  of  book*  h» 
the  various  departments  of  literature,  and  can  supply  every  thing  In  their  lino 
of  business  on  the  lowest  terms,  wholesale  and  retail. 

PRINCIPLES  OF  ZOOLOGY;  Touching  the  Structure,  Devel- 
opment, Distribution,  and  Natural  Arrangement  of  the  RACES 
OF  ANIMALS,  living  and  extinct,  with  numerous  illustration*. 
For  the  use  of  Schools  and  Colleges.  Part  I.,  COMPARATIVE 
PHYSIOLOGY.  By  Louis  AGASSIZ  and  AUGUSTUS  A.  GOULD. 

"  The  design  of  this  work  li  to  furnish  an  epitome  of  the  leading  principles 
of  the  science  of  Zoology,  as  deduced  from  the  present  state  of  knowledge,  so 
illustrate,!  as  to  be  Intelligible  to  the  beginning  student.  No  similar  treatise 
now  exists  in  this  country,  and  indeed,  some  of  the  topics  have  not  beeo 
touched  upon  in  the  language,  unless  in  a  strictly  technical  form,  and  in 
scattered  articles."  r. 

"  Being  designed  for  American  students,  the  Illustrations  hare  been  drawn, 
as  far  as  possible,  from  American  objects.  *  •  •  Popular  names  have  been 
employed  as  far  as  possible,  and  to  the  scientific  names  an  English  termination 
has  generally  been  given.  The  first  part  is  devoted  to  Comparative  Physiology, 
as  the  basis  of  Classification  ;  the  second,  to  Systematic  Zoology,  in  which  the 
principles  of  Classification  will  be  applied,  and  the  principal  groups  of  animals 
briefly  characterized."  —  Extract!  from  the  Preface. 

MODERN  FRENCH  LITERATURE;  By  L.  RAYMOND  D« 
VERICOUR,  formerly  lecturer  in  the  Royal  Athenaeum  of  Paris, 
member  of  the  Institute  of  France,  &c.  American  edition, 
brought  down  to  the  present  day,  and  revised  with  notes  by 
WILLIAM  S.  CHASE.  With  a  fine  portrait  of  LAMARTINE. 

•.•This  Treatise  has  received  the  highest  praise  as  a  compAensive  and 
thorough  survey  of  the  various  departments  of  Modern  French  J.iterature.- 
It  contains  biographical  and  critical  notes  of  all  the  prominent  names  in  Phi- 
losophy. Criticism,  History.  Romance,  Poetry,  and  the  Dramas  and  presents  a 
fall  and  impartial  consideration  of  the  Political  Tendencies  of  France,  as  they 
may  be  traced  in  the  writings  of  authors  cqunlly  conspicuous  as  Scholars  and 
as  Statesmen.  Mr.  Chase,  wlio  has  been  the  Parisian  correspondent  of  seven* 
lending  periodicals  of  this  country.  Is  well  qualified,  from  a  prolonged  resi- 
dence !n  France,  his  familiarity  with  its  Literature,  and  by  a  personal  ac- 
quaintance with  many  of  these  authors,  to  introduce  the  work  of  De  Vericont 
to  the  American  public. 

"This  is  the  only  complete  treatise  of  trie  kind  on  this  subject,  ei'h'r  it 
French  or  English,  and  has  received  the  highest  commendation.  Mr.  Chase  is 
well  qualified  to  introduce  the  worV  to  th»  public.  The  book  cannot  fall  to  oc 
both  useful  and  popular."  —  tteie  York  Evening  Pott. 


VALUABLE  SCHOOL  BOOKS. 


KLEMENTS  OF  MORAL  SCIENCE.  By  FHAXCIS  WATLAHD. 
D.D.  President  of  Brown  University,  and  Profess  >r  of  Moral 
Philosophy.  Thirty-sixth  Thousand.  ISmo.,  cloth.  Price 
fl.25. 

Prom  Rrr.  Wilbur  fi.<t,  PmMe*t  of  Ike  Wrtlfym  UmtmHy. 

"  I  ha»e  examined  it  » ith  great  satisfaction  and  interest.  The  work  was 
f  really  needed,  and  ti  well  executed.  Dr.  Waylsnd  deserves  the  grateful 
acknowledgment*  and  liberal  patronage  of  the  public.  I  need  eay  nothing 
furtlier  to  express  my  high  estimate  of  the  work,  than  that  we  shall  immedi- 
ately adopt  it  at  a  text-book  In  our  university." 

From  lion.  Jamet  Kent,  late  Chmcrllor  of  A'ttp  York. 

•The  work  ha*  been  read  by  me  attentirely  and  thoroughly,  and  I  think 
»ery  highly  of  it.  The  author  himself  it  one  of  the  most  estimable  of  men, 
and  I  do  not  know  of  any  ethioal  treatite,  in  which  onr  duties  to  God  and  to 
ear  fellow-men  ore  laid  down  with  more  precision,  simplicity,  eteejaes*. 
energy,  and  truth." 

"  The  work  of  TIT.  Wayland  ha>  arisen  gradually  from  th*  necessity  of 
eorrectinj:  the  false  prinriplet  and  fallacloui  reasonings  of  Paley.  It  it  a 
radical  mistake,  in  Uie  education  of  youth,  to  permit  any  book  to  to  used 
by  student*  a*  a  text-book,  which  contain*  erroneous  doctrines,  especially 
when  these  are  fundamental,  and  tend  to  vitiate  tlie  *  hole  system  of  moral*. 
We  have  been  greatly  pleated  with  the  method  which  I*re*ideut  Wat  land  ha* 
adopted  ;  be  goes  back  to  the  simplest  and  most  fundamental  principles ;  and. 
In  the  statement  of  his  Tiews,  he  unites  perspicuity  with  conciseness  and 
precision.  In  all  the  author's  leading  fundamental  principle*  we  entirely 
concur."  —  Biblical  Sepotitory. 

MORAL  SCIENCE  ABRIDGED,  by  the  Author,  and  adapted  to 
the  use  of  Schools  and  Academies.  Twenty-fifth  Thousand. 
18mo.,  half  cloth.  Trice  25  cents. 

The  more  effectually  la  meet  the  desire  expressed  for  a  f«tep  edition,  Ibe  praent 
edition  u  lamed  at  (be  reduced  prict  of  'IS  emu  ptr  copy,  and  it  is  hoped  ihenbjr  to 
extend  the  benefit  of  moral  inunction  to  all  the  youth  of  our  land.  Teachers  aad  all 
ethers  engaged  in  toe  training  of  youth,  ue  inriied  to  examine  thu  work. 

«  Dr.  Wayland  ha*  published  an  abridgment  of  his  work,  for  the  use  of 
schools.  Of  this  step  we  can  hardly  speak  too  highly.  It  is  more  than  time 
that  the  study  of  moral  philosophy  should  be  introduced  into  all  onr  Institu- 
tions of  education.  We  are  happy  to  »e«  the  way  so  auspiciously  opened  for 
nich  an  introduction.  It  has  been  not  merely  abridged,  but  al«o  rt-writtf*. 
We  cannot  but  regard  the  labor  a*  well  bestowed."  —  forth  American  Jterietc. 

•We  speak  that  we  do  know,  when  we  express  onr  high  estimate  of  Dr. 
WayUnd's  ability  in  teaching  Moral  Philosophy,  whether  orally  or  by  the 
hook.  Having  listened  to  his  instructions,  in  this  interesting  department,  we 
Can  attest  how  lofty  are  the  principle*,  how  exact  and  severe  the  argument*. 
flon,  how  appropriate  and  strong  the  illustrations  which  characterize  his 
system  and  enforce  it  on  the  mind."  —  Tht  Christia*  Witata, 

"  The  work  of  which  this  rolnme  If  an  abridgment,  is  well  k-now™  u  one  of 
ihe  best  and  most  complete  works  on  Moral  J'hiUwnphy  extant  The  author 
ie  well  known  as  one  of  the  most  profound  scholars  of  the  tgf.  That  the  study 
ef  Moral  Science,  a  science  which  teaches  goo'lnett,  should  be  a  branch  of 
education,  not  only  In  our  colleges,  hut  in  our  schools  and  academies,  we 
believe  will  not  be  denied.  The  abridgment  of  this  work  seems  to  u*  admi- 
tmbly  calculated  for  the  purpose,  and  we  hope  it  will  be  extensively  applied 
10  the  purposes  for  which  It  is  Intended."  -  TVr  Jfercoirifc  Journal. 


VALUABLE  SCHOOL  BOOKS. 


THE  ELEMENTS  OF  POLITICAL  ECONOMY.  By  FRANCIS 
WAYLA.ND,  D.I).,  Presid«nt  of  Brown  University.  "  Fifteenth 
Thousand.  12mo.,  cloth.  Price  $1.25. 

"  !fi.«  object  h.i<  been  to  write  a  book,  which  any  one  who  chooses  may 
•nderstnml.  He  lias,  thi-refore,  labored  to  exprew  the  general  principles  in 
the  plainest  manner  possible,  and  to  illustrate  them  by  cues  with  which 
every  person  is  fnmiliar.  It  has  been  to  the  author  a  sourer  of  regret,  that  the 
course  of  diMMi»i»n  in  the  following  pages,  has,  unavoidably,  Ted  him  over 
pound  which  hu  frequently  been  the  arena  of  political  controversy.  In  all 
inch  ease*,  he  hu  endeavored  to  state  what  seemed  to  him  to  be  truth, 
without  fe.ir,  favor,  or  affection.  He  i«  consciou*  to  himself  of  no  bias  towards 
any  party  whatever,  and  he  thinks  that  he  who  will  read  the  whole  work,  will 
be  convinced  that  he  has  been  Influenced  by  none."  —  Rxtract  from  Preface, 

POLITICAL  ECONOMY,  ABRIDGED,  by  the  Author,  and 
adapted  to  the  use  of  Schools  and  Academies.  Seventh 
Thousand.  ISrno.,  half  morocco.  Price  50  cents. 

"  The  original  work  of  the  author,  on  Political  Economy,  has  already  been 
noticed  on  our  piigrs ;  and  the  present  abridgment  stand*  In  no  need  of  a 
recommendation  from  us.  We  may  be  permit!.'.!,  lu.wcvcr,  to  »»y,  that  both 
the  rising  und  risen  generations  are  deeplv  indebted  to  Dr.  W«y Intnl.  for  the 
skill  and  power  he  hu  put  forth  tn  bring  a  highly  important  subject  distinctly 
before  them,  within  such  narrow  limits.  It  is  to  be  hoped,  this  will  form 
a  clus*-book,  and  be  faithfully  studied  in  our  academies;  and  thnt  it  will 
And  it*  w»y  into  every  family  library.  It  Is  fitted  to  enlarge  the  mind, 
to  purify  tlie  judgment,  to  correct  erroneous  popular  impressions,  and  assist 
erery  man  fu  forming  opinions  of  public  measures,  which  will  abide  the  test 
of  time  and  experience."  —  Borto*  Recorder. 

"  We  rejoice  to  see  inch  treatises  spreading  among  the  people :  and  we  urge, 
all  who  would  be  intelligent  freemen,  to  read  them.  —  Xeu>  York  Transcript. 

"  It  is  well  adapted  to  high  schools,  and  embraces  the  soundest  system  of 
republican  political  economy  of  any  treatise  extant."  —  Daily  Advocate, 

THOUGHTS  on  the  present  Colleginte  System  in  the  United 
States.  I'y  KitAxns  WAYL.AND,  D.D.  Price  50  cents. 

"These  Thoughts  come  from  a  source  entitled  to  a  very  respectful  atten- 
tion i  and  the  author  goes  over  the  whole  ground  of  coUegiate  education,  criti- 
cising freely  all  the  arrangement*  In  every  department  and  in  all  theii 
bearings." 

PALEY'S  NATURAL  THEOLOGY.  Illustrated  by  forty  plates 
and  Selections  from  the  notes  of  Dr.  Paxton,  with  additional 
Notes,  original  and  selected,  for  this  edition ;  with  a  vocabu- 
lary of  Scientific  Terms.  Edited  by  JOHN  WARE,  M.D.  12mo., 
sheep.  Price  31.25. 

"  The  work  before  us  is  one  which  deserres  rather  to  be  studied  than 
merely  read.  Indeed,  without  diligent  attention  and  study,  neither  the  excel- 
lences of  it  ean  be  fully  discovered,  nor  Its  advantages  realized.  It  is,  there- 
fore, gratifying  to  find"  it  introduced,  as  a  text-book,  into  the  colleges  and 
literary  Institutions  of  o-ir  country.  The  edition  before  us  Is  superior  to  any 
we  hare  seen,  and.  we  believe,  superior  to  any  that  has  yet  been  published." 

Spirit  nfthr  filgrina. 

"  Perhaps  no  one  of  our  author's  works  gives  greater  satisfaction  to  all  claawf 
of  IT.  ;  the  ignorant  and  the  enlightened.  Indeed, 

we  ;••  thi  arguiiieim  Tor  the  existence  and  attributes 

of  the  •<  MI--  me  Being  to  be  drawn  from  hu  works,  are  exhibited  in  a  manner 
more  attractive  and  inure  convincing."  —  C'Arurioa)  ftrawuvr. 


VALUABLE  SCHOOL  BOOKS. 


BLARE'S  !  >!v  IN  A8TRONONY.     De«i£nipd  for  the 

Use  of  I  .ols.     ByJ.  L.  HI.AKK,  I). I).     Illustrated 

by  Steel  Plate  Engravings.    8vo.,  cloth  back.     Price  60  cenU. 

From  E.  UincHty,  Prof,  of  MaOumatict  in  Maryland  1'nivertity. 

"  I  mm  much  indebted  to  you  for  •  copy  of  the  Fint  Book  in  Astronomy. 
It  If  a  work  of  utility  and  merit,  far  superior  to  any  other  which  I  have  wen. 
The  author  has  icler'tod  hi«  topics  with  prcat  judgment,  —  arranged  them  in 
admirable  order,  -  exhibited  them  in  a  style  and  manner  at  once  taiteful  and 
philosophical.  Nothing  seems  wanting.  —  nothing  redundant  It  is  truly  a 
Terr  beautiful  and  attractive  ho«k.  rulrulatrd  to  afford  both  pleasure  and 
profit  to  all  who  may  enjoy  the  advantage  of  penning  it." 

from  B.  Field,  Principal  of  the  Hancock  School,  Boiton. 

"I  know  of  no  other  work  on  Astronomy  so  well  calculated  to  Intcret* 
and  Instruct  young  learner*  in  this  sublime  science." 

From  Isaac  .Foster,  hatructor  of  Youth,  Portland. 

"I  hare  examined  Blake's  First  Book  in  Astronomy,  and  am  mnch  pleated 
with  It  A  very  happy  selection  of  tonics  Is  presented  in  a  manner  which 
cannot  fail  to  Interest  the  learner,  while  the  auertions  will  assist  him  materi- 
ally In  fixing  in  the  memory  what  ought  to  be  retained.  It  leaves  the  moat 
intricate  parts  of  the  subject  for  lho«e  who  are  able  to  master  them,  and  bring* 
before  the  young  pupil  only  what  can  be  made  intelligible  and  interesting 
to  him." 

"We  are  free  to  say, that  It  Is,  In  our  opinion,  decidedly  the  best  work 
we  have  any  knowledge  of,  on  the  sublime  and  interesting  subject  of  Astron- 
omy. The  engravings  are  executed  in  a  superior  style,  and  the  mechanical 
appearance  of  the  book  is  extremely  prepossessing.— Evening  Gazette,  Jtotton. 

"We  do  not  hesitate  to  recommend  It  to  the  notice  of  the  superintending 
committees,  teachers,  and  pupils  of  our  public  schools.  The  definitions  in  tht 
first  part  of  the  volume  are  given  in  brief  and  clear  language,  adapted  to  the 
understanding  of  beginners."— Slate  HtroM,  -V.  II. 

BLAKE'S  NATURAL  PHILOSOPHY.  Bein?  Conversations  on 
Philosophy,  with  the  addition  of  Explanatory  N"te<,  Questions 
for  Examination,  and  a  Dictionary  of  Philosophical  Terms. 
With  twenty-eight  steel  Engravings.  By  J.  L.  BLAKE,  D.D. 
12mo.,  sheep.  Price  67  cents. 

%•  Perhaps  no  work  has  contributed  to  much  as  this  to  excite  a  fbndnass) 
for  the  study  of  Natural  Philosophy  in  youthful  minds.  The  familiar 
comparisons,  with  which  it  abounds,  awaken  interest,  and  rivet  the  attention 
of  the  pupil. 

From  Rn.  J.  Adam*,  President  of  Charleston  College,  S.  C. 

"I  have  been  highly  gratified  with  the  perntal  of  your  edition  of  COB- 
renations  on  Natural   Philosophy.    The  Question*,  Notes,  and   Explanarioni 
of  Terms,  are  valuable  additions  to  the  work,  and  make  this  edition  superior  ' 
to  any  other  with  which  I  am  acquainted.    I  shall  recommend  it  wherever 
I  have  an  opportunity." 

"  We  avail  ourselves  of  the  opportunity  furnished  u«  by  the  publication  of  • 
new  edition  of  this  deservedly  popular  work,  to  recommend  it,  not  only  to 
those  instructors  who  may  not"  already  have  adopted  it,  but  alio  generally  to 
all  readers  who  are  desirous  of  obtaining  information  on  the  subjects  on  which 
it  treats.  By  Questions  arranged  at  the  bottom  of  the  page*.  In  which  th« 
collateral  facts  are  arranged,  he  directs  the  attention  of  the  learner  to  the  prin- 
cipal topics.  Mr.  Blake  ha*  also  added  many  Notes,  which  iiluntrate  th« 
passages  to  which  they  are  appended,  and  the  Dictionary  of  Philosophical 
Tenni  is  a  useful  addition."  —  V.  3.  Literan  Ontrttr. 


VALUABLE  SCHOOL  BOOKS. 


YOUNG  LADIES'  CLASS  BOOK.  A  Selection  of  Lessons  for 
Reading  in  Prose  and  Verse.  By  E.  BAILEY.  A.M.,  late 
Principal  of  the  Young  Ladies'  High  School,  Boston.  Stereo- 
typed Edition.  12mo.,  sheep.  Price  83>i  cents. 

From  the  Principal*  of  the  Public  School*  far  Female*,  Roitm, 

•GEXTI.EMEX:  — We  have  examined  the  Young  Ladle*'  Clan  Book  with 
interett  and  pleasure ;  with  interest,  became  we  have  felt  the  want  of  a  Read- 
ing Book  exprewly  designed  fur  the  use  of  female*;  and  with  pleunre,  be- 
cause we  hare  found  U  well  adapted  to  supply  the  deficiency.  The  high-toned 
morality,  the  freedom  from  sectarianism,  the  ta*te,  richness,  and  adaptation 
of  the  selections,  added  to  the  neatness  of  it*  external  appearance,  must  com- 
mend it  to  all ;  while  the  practical  teacher  will  not  fail  to  observe  that  diversity 
of  style,  together  with  thus*  peculiar  potato,  the  want  of  which,  few,  who  have 
not  felt,  know  how  to  supply. 

Itespectfully  yours,  BABKVM  FIELD,        ABRAHAM  ANDREWS, 

B.  O.  PAKKKB,          CHARLES  Fox." 

From  the  Principal  of  the  Mount  Vernon  School,  Botton. 

"  I  hare  examined  with  much  interest  the  Young  Ladies'  Class  Book,  by 
Mr.  Bailey,  and  have  been  very  highly  pleased  with  it*  content*.  It  1*  my 
intention  to  Introduce  it  into  my  own  school ;  a*  I  regard  it  a*  not  only  remark- 
ably well  fitted  to  answer  its  particular  object  a*  a  book  of  exercises  in  the  art 
of  elocution,  but  a*  calculated  to  have  an  Influence  upon  the  character  and 
conduct,  which  will  be  in  every  respect  favorable."  —  JACOB  ABBOTT. 

"  We  were  never  so  (track  with  the  importance  of  having  reading  books 
for  female  schools,  adapted  particularly  to  that  express  purpose,  as  while 
looking  over  the  pages  of  this  selection.  The  eminent  success  of  the  com- 
piler in  teaching  this  branch,  to  which  we  can  personally  bear  testimony,  i* 
sufficient  evidence  of  the  character  of  the  work."  —  Annul*  of  Education. 

ROMAN  ANTIttUITIES  AND  ANCIENT  MYTHOLOGY.  By 
C.  K.  DIU.AWAY,  A.M.,  late  Principal  in  the  Boston  Latin 
School.  With  Engravings.  Eighth  Ed.,  unproved.  12nio., 
Half  mor.  Price  67  cts. 

Prom  E.  Bailey,  Principal  of  the  Young  Ladief  High  School,  Botton. 

"  Having  u»ed  Dillaway't  Roman  Antiquitiei  and  Ancient  Mythology  In 
my  school  for  several  yean,  I  commend  It  to  teacher*  with  great  confidence, 
u  a  valuable  text-book  on  those  interesting  branches  of  education. 

E.  BAILET." 

14  The  want  of  a  cheap  volume,  embracing  a  succinct  account  of  ancient 
enitoms,  together  with  a  view  of  classical  mythology,  ha*  long  been  felt. 
Mr.  DilUway's  book  seem*  to  have  been  prepared  with  special  reference  to 
the  want*  of  those  who  are  Just  entering  upon  a  classical  career;  and  we 
deem  it  bat  a  simple  act  of  justice  to  say,  that  it  (applies  the  want,  which, 
M  we  have  before  said,  ha*  long  been  felt  A  peculiar  merit  of  this  compila- 
tion, and  one  which  will  gain  it  admission  into  our  highly  respectable  female 
•eminariet.  Is  the  total  absence  of  all  allusion,  even  the  most  remote,  to  the) 
disgusting  n'i'c-nitie*  of  ancient  mythology ;  while,  at  the  same  time,  nothing 
to  omitted  which  a  pure  mind  would  feel  interested  to  know.  We  recom- 
mend the  hook  a*  a  valuable  addition  to  the  treatises  in  our  schools  and 
academies."  —  Education  Reporter,  Bottom. 

"  It  wa*  reserved  for  one  of  our  Boston  Instructor*  to  apply  the  condensing 
apparatus  to  this  ma*s  of  crudities,  and  so  to  modernize  the  antiirniiirt  of  the 
old  Romans,  a*  to  make  a  befitting  abridgment  for  schools  of  the  first  order. 
Mr.  Dillaway  ha*  presented  such  a  compilation  a*  must  be  Interesting  to  lad*, 
and  become  popular  a*  a  text-book.  Historical  fact*  are  stated  with  great  sim- 
plicity and  clearne**  i  the  most  important  [joints  are  seized  upon,  while  trifling 
peculiarities  are  passed  unnoticed. "—An.  Traveller. 


VALUABLE  SCHOOL  BOOKS. 


COMPARATIVE  PHYSICAL  GEOGRAPHY.      The  Earth 

and  Man.  Lecture  <  on  Comparative  Physical  Geography,  in 
its  relation  to  the  History  of  Mankind.  By  Arnold  Guyot. 
Translated  from  the  French  by  Prof.  C.  C.  FELTOX.  With 
Illustrations.  Second  Thousand,  12mo.  Price,  Jl  2-5. 

"  Geography  U  here  presented  under  a  now  rtml  attractive  phase.  It 
»  no  longer  a  dry  description  of  the  feature!  of  the  earth'*  surface. 
The  influence  of  soil,  scrm-ry,  and  climate  upon  diameter,  litu  not  yet 
received  the  consideration  due  to  it  from  historians  and  philosopher!.  In 
the  volume  before  in,  tin-  profound  investigations  of  Iliiinboldt,  Kilter, 
anil  other*,  in  Physical  Geojraphy,  are  presented  in  a  jn.pul.ir  form,  and 
with  the  rlB-irnc8»  unit  vivacity  «u  rhnrncl'-iiKtii:  of  French  lreaii»e*  on 
•eicnce.  Tho  work  should  be  introduced  into  our  higher  school*."  — 
The  luileptniitnt,  JV.  7. 

«'  The«e  lectures  form  one  of  the  mo?t  valuable  contri'iutions  to  peo- 
graphic  il  icicnce  that  hru>  ever  been  published  in  tlii-"  country.  'I'hey 
invest  the  study  of  geography  with  an  interest  \\liich  will,  we  doubt  not, 
surprise  and  delight  m  my.  They  will  ojien  an  entire  new  woild  to  most 
readers,  and  will  lie  found  an  invaluable  uid  to  the  teacher  and  student 
of  geography."  —  Evening-  Traveller. 

THE  CICERONIAN  ;  Or  the  Prussian  Method  of  Teaching  the 
Latin  Language.  Adapted  to  the  use  of  American  Schools,  by 
B.  SKAKS.  18mo.,  half  mor.  Price  50  cents. 

From  tJte  Pro/tuort  qf  Harvard  University. 

•  We  beg  leave  to  observe,  that  we  consider  this  book  a  very  valuable  addi- 
tion to  our  stock  of  elementary  works.  Its  (Treat  merit  Is,  that  It  renders  the 
elementary  instruction  in  LsMa  less  mechanical,  by  constantly  calling  the 
reasoning  power  of  the  pupil  into  action,  and  gives,  from  the  beginning,  • 
deeper  insight  into  the  very  nature,  principles,  and  laws  not  only  of  the  LsUin 
language,  but  of  language  in  general  If  the  book  required  any  other 
recommendation  beside*  that  of  being  the  work  of  so  thorough  and  experi- 
enced a  scholar  as  Dr.  Sears,  it  would  DC  this,  that  the  system  illustrated  in  it 
is  not  a  mere  theory,  but  has  been  practically  tested  by  many  able  instructors 
in  Germany.  We  wish  that  the  same  trial  may  be  made  here- 

Very  respectfully  yours,  CHABI.KS  BECK, 

C.  C.  F«LTO»." 

From  S.  H.  Taylor,  Principal  of  PhiJIipt'  Academi,  Andorer. 

"  I  have  examined,  with  much  pleasure  and  profit,  the  '  Ciceronian,'  pre- 
pared by  Dr.  Sears.  It  is  admirably  adapted  to  make  thorough  teachers  and 
thorough  pupils.  It  requires  of  the  teacher  a  precise  and  intimate  acquaint- 
ance with  the  minutisj  of  Die  Latin  tongue,  and  necessarily  induces  in  the 
pil  habits  of  close  thought  and  nice  discrimination.  The  plan  of  the  work 

" 


excellent  S.  II.  TAYLOK." 


p 
Is 

MEMORIA  TECHNICA  ;  Or,  the  Art  of  Abbreviating  those 
Studies  which  pive  the  greatest  Labor  to  the  Memory;  Includ- 
ing Numbers',  Historical  Dates,  Geography,  Astronomv,  Grayi- 
ties,  &c.  By  L.  D.  JOHNSON.  Third  Edition,  revised  and 
improved.  Octavo,  cloth  back.  Price  50  cents. 

"ThU  system  of  Mnemotechny,  differing  considerably  from  the  one  intrc- 
daced  by  Prof.  Uouraad.  is  designed  to  furnish  all  the  rules  for  aiding  th* 
memory  without  lessening  mental  culture,  which  can  be  made  available  dar- 
ing a  connw  of  elementary  study.  The  Illustrations  m»v  be  easily  compre- 
hended hy  any  person  of  ordinary  mental  rapacity  i  and  the  application  of 
the  principles  upon  which  the  system  is  based,  rnunt  necessarily  furnish  an 
agreeable  and  useful  exercise  to  the  mind."  —  -Veic  Tort  Teachert'  Advocate. 


PHILOSOPHY  AND  PHILOLOGY. 


ANCIENT  LITERATURE  AND  ART  ;  Or,  Essays  on  Clas- 
sical Studies,  with  the  Biography  and  Correspondence  of 
Eminent  Philologists.  By  BAUXAS  SEARS,  of  Newton, 
B.  B.  EDWARDS,  of  Andover;  and  C.  C.  FBLTON,  of  Cam- 
bridge. 12mo.  Cloth.  Price,  SI  25. 

*  The  object  of  the  accomplished  gentlemen  who  have  engaged  in  its  prepa- 
ration has  been,  to  foster  and  extend  among  educated  nun.  in  thin  country,  the 
already  growing  interest  In  classical  studies.  The  di-ipn  is  a  noble  and 
veneroui  one,  and  hai  been  executed  with  a  taste  and  good  tense  that  do  honor 
both  to  the  writen  and  the  publisher*.  The  book  is  one  which  deserves  a  place 
In  the  library  of  every  educated  man.  To  thow  now  engaged  in  classical  study 
It  cannot  fall  to  be  highly  useful,  while  to  the  more  advanced  scholar,  it  will 
open  new  sources  of  interest  and  delight  In  the  un  for  gotten  pursuit*  of  hi* 
earlier  days."  —  Providence  JcmrnaL 

GESENirS'S  HEBREW  GRAMMAR.  Translated  from  the 
Eleventh  German  Edition.  By  T.  J.  CONANT,  Prof,  of  He- 
brew and  of  Biblical  Criticism  and  Interpretation  in  the  Tbeol. 
Institution  at  Hamilton,  X.  V.  With  a  Course  of  Exercises  in 
Hebrew  Grammar,  and  a  Hebrew  Chrestomathy,  prepared  by 
the  Translator.  8vo.  cloth.  Price  $2.00. 

**»•  Special  reference  has  been  had  In  the  arrangement,  illustrations,  the 
addition  of  the  Course  of  Exercises,  the  Chrestomathy,  *c-,  to  adapt  it  to  the 
wants  of  those  who  ma/  wish  to  pursue  the  study  of  Hebrew  without  the  kid 
of  a  teacher. 

LIFE  OF  GODFREY  WILLIAM  VON  LIEBNITZ.  On  the 
basis  of  the  German  Work  of  Dr.  G.  £.  Guhrauer.  By  JOHN 
M.  MACKIE.  16mo.  cloth.  Price  75  cents. 

"  The  peculiar  relation  which  IJebnitz  sustained  daring  his  life  to  Locke 
and  Newton  may  partly  account  for  the  fact  that  a  biographyof  this  great 
has  been  so  long  wanting  in  the  English  language.  .  .  .  we  commend 
book,  not  onlr  to  scholars  and  men  of  science,  out  to  all  onr  readers  who 
to  contemplate  the  life  and  labors  of  a  great  and  good  man.  It  merit 
special  notice  of  all  who  are  interested  in  the  business  of  eduratirjn,  and 
deserves  •  place  by  the  side  of  Brcwster's  Life  of  Newton,  in  all  the  libraries' 
of  our  schools,  academies,  and  literary  institutions."—  Christian  \\'<itrhman. 

"  There  is  perhaps  no  case  on  record  of  a  single  man  who  has  so  gone  the 
rounds  of  human  knowledge  as  did  Liebnitz  :  he  was  not  a  recluse,  like  Kpi- 
noza  and  Kant,  but  went  from  capital  to  capital,  and  associated  with  kings 
and  premiers.  All  branches  of  thought  were  interesting;  to  him,  and  he  seems 
in  punning  all  to  have  bern  actuated  not  by  ambition,  but  by  a  «incei« 
desire  to  promote  the  knowledge  and  welfare  of  mankind.  —  6'Aristton  World. 

LIFE  OF  ROGER  WILLIAMS.  The  Founder  of  the  State  of 
Rhode  Island.  By  WM.  GAMMELL,  Prof,  in  Brown  University. 
With  a  Likeness.  12mo.  cloth.  Price  76  cents. 

14  Mr.  Oammelli  fine  belles-letters  attainment!  have  enabled  him  to  present 
his  distinguished  subject  in  the  most  captivating  light.  So  far  as  the  work 
touches  controversies  which  reach  and  Influence  the  present  times,  it  is  ouf 
privilege  as  well  as  duty  tn  read  it  as  a  private  citizen,  and  not  as  a  public  jour- 
nalist Its  mechanical  e'xeentinn  Is  In  the  usually  neat  style  of  the  respectable 
publishers."  —  C'Arurton  Alliance. 

"  This  life  has  many  virtues  —  brevity,  simplicity,  fairness.  Though  written 
by  a  Rhode  Island  man,  and  warm  in  its  approval  of  Roger  Williams,  it  is 
Dot  unjust  to  his  Puritan  opponents,  but  only  draws  such  deductions  as  wets 
unavoidable  from  the  premises.  It  ii  the  lire  of  a  poo./  man.  and  we  read 
with  grateful  complacency  'he  lommodittiou  uf  kit  excellences." 

Vkrittia*  World. 


d  this 

ho  love 

t*  the 


W.  &  R.  CHAMBERS'S  WORKS. 


CHAMBER'S  CYCLOP<EpIA  OF  ENGLISH  LITERATURE ; 
A  selection  of  the  choicest  productions  of  English  Authors, 
from  the  earliest  to  the  present  time ;  Connected  by  a  Criti- 
cal and  Biographical  History.  Edited  by  ROBKKT  CHAMBERS. 
In  two  vols.  octavo,  with  upwards  of  800  elegant  illustrations. 
Price,  in  cloth,  $5.00. 

V  The  Publisher!  of  the  AMERICAN  Edition  of  thli  valuable  work  desire 
to  state,  that,  besides  the  numerous  pictorial  illustrations  In  the  English  Edition, 
thej  have  greatly  enriched  the  work  by  the  addition  of  fine  iteel  and  mezzotint 
engravings  of  the  hcadi  of  Shakspeare,  Addinon,  Byron  ;  a  full  length  portrait 
of  Dr.  Johnton,  and  a  beautiful  scenic  representation  of  Oliver  Ooldimlth  and 
Dr.  Johnton.  These  elegant  addition!  together  with  luperior  paper  and  bind- 
ing mutt  give  this  a  decided  preference  over  all  other  editioni. 

"  We  hail  with  peculiar  pleasure  the  appearance  of  this  work,  and  more  pirxir- 
Wly  its  republicarion  in  this  country  at  a  price  which  places  It  within  the 
reach  of  a  great  number  of  readen,  and  for  which  they  can  expect  to  be  remu- 
nerated only  by  a  very  extensive  sale." 

"  The  selections  given  by  Mr.  Chamber!  from  the  works  of  the  early  English 
•writers  are  copious,  and  judiciously  made.  *  *  •  *  *  We  shall  conclude  at  »-e 
commenced,  with  expressing  a  hope  that  the  publication  which  has  called 
forth  our  remarks  will  exert  an  influence  in  directing  the  attention  of  the 
public  to  the  literature  of  our  forefather!."  —  Worth  America*  Review. 

CHAMBERS'S  MISCELLANY  of  Useful  and  Entertaining 
Knowledge,  with  elegant  illustrative  engravings.  Edited  by 
WILLIAM  CHAMBERS.  Ten  volumes,  cloth.  Price  $W.W 

•,»  The  design  of  the  MISCELLAH T  is  to  supply  the  increasing  demand  for 
useful,  Instructive,  and  entertaining  reading,  and  to  bring  all  the  aids  of  litera- 
ture to  bear  on  the  culth-ation  of  the  feelingt  and  understanding  of  the  people— 
to  imprest  correct  views  on  important  moral  and  tocial  questions  —  suppress 
every  species  of  strife  and  savagery  —  cheer  the  lagging  and  desponding  by  the 
relation  of  tales  drawn  from  the  imagination  of  popular  writers  —  rouse  the 
fancy  by  descriptions  of  interesting  foreign  icenet  —  give  a  zest  to  every-dny 
occupations  by  ballad  and  lyrical  poetry  —  in  short,  to  furnish  an  nnobtruii»e 
friend  and  guide,  a  lively  fireside  companion,  as  far  as  that  object  can  b* 
attained  through  the  instrumentality  of  books. 

CHAMBERS'S  LIBRARY  FOR  YOUNG  PEOPLE.  A  series  of 
small  books,  elegantly  illuminated.  Edited  by  WILLIAM 
CHAMBERS.  Each  volume  forms  a  complete  work,  embel- 
lished with  a  fine  steel  engraving,  and  is  sold  separately. 
18mo.  Price  3TX  cents. 

ORLANDINO  :  A  Story  of  Self-Denial.  By  MARIA  EDGEWORTK. 

THE  LITTLE  ROBINSON  :   And  other  Tales. 

UNCLE  SAM'S  MONEY  BOX.    By  Mrs.  S.  C.  HALL, 

JACOPO  :  Tales  by  Miss  EDGEWORTH  and  others. 

TRUTH  AND  TRUST.    Jervis  Ryland  —  Victor  and  Lisette. 

ALFRED  IN  INDIA.  CLEVER  BOYS. 

MORAL  COURAGE.  TALES  OF  OLD  ENGLAND. 

[EP*  Other  volume*  are  in  preparation. 


THE  WORKS  OF  JOHN  HARRIS,  D  D. 


THE  PRE-ADAMITE  EARTH:  Contributions  to  Theological 
Science.  12mo.  Price  85  cents. 

"  It  b  a  book  for  thinking  men."  It  opens  row  tnuni  of  thought  to  the 
reader — puts  him  in  a  new  position  to  survey  the  wooden  of  Ood's  works  i 
and  compels  Natural  Science  to  Irear  her  decided  testimony  iu  support  of  Divine 
Truth." — 1'liitaiielphia  Ch.  Observer. 

MAN  PRIMEVAL;  Or,  the  Constitution  and  Primitive  Condi- 
tion of  the  Human  Being.  A  Contribution  to  Theological  Sci- 
ence. Vflth  a  finely  engraved  portrait  of  the  author ;  12ino. 
cloth,  price  $1.25. 

•«•  This  is  the  second  volume  of  a  series  of  works  on  Theological  Scienee. 
The  first  was  received  with  much  favor  —  the  present  Is  a  continuation  of  the 
principles  which  were  seen  holding  their  way  through  the  successive  kingdom! 
of  primeval  nature,  and  are  here  resumed  and  exhibited  in  their  ueit  higher 
application  to  individual  man. 

"  Ills  copious  and  beautiful  illustrations  of  the  successive  laws  of  the  Divine 
Manifestation,  have  yielded  us  inexpressible  delight."  —  Loud.  Eclectic  Jievieio, 

THE  GREAT  COMMISSION;  Or  the  Christian  Church  consti- 
tuted and  charged  to  convey  the  Gospel  to  the  World.  A  Prize 
Essay.  With  an  Introductory  Essay,  by  W.  R.  WILLIAMS,  D.D. 
Sixth  thousand.  12mo.  Price  $1.'00. 

"  Of  the  several  productions  of  Dr.  Harris,— all  of  them  of  great  value,  —that 
now  before  ns  is  destined,  probably,  to  exert  the  most  powerful  influence  in 
forming  the  religious  and  missionary  character  of  the  coming  generations.  But 
the  vast  fund  of  argument  and  instruction  comprised  in  these  pages  will  excite 
the  admiration  and  inspire  tin-  gratitude  of  thousands  in  our  own  land  as  well 
as  in  Europe.  Every  clergyman  and  pious  and  reflecting  layman  ought  to  pos- 
sess the  volume,  and  make' it  familiar  by  repeated  perusal."— Jliuttun  Recorder. 

THE  GREAT  TEACHER;  Or,  Characteristics  of  our  Lord's 
Ministry.  With  an  Introductory  Essay,  by  H.  HUMPHKKY,  D.D. 
Tenth  thousand.  12mo.  Price  86  cents. 

"  The  book  itself  must  have  cost  much  meditation,  much  communion  on  the 
bosom  of  Jesus,  and  much  prayer.  Its  style  is,  like  the  country  which  gave  it 
birth,  beautiful,  varied,  finished,  and  everywhere  delightful.  But  the  style  of 
this  work  is  iu  smallest  excellence.  It  will  be  read :  it  ought  to  be  read.  It  will 
Dnd  Its  way  to  many  parlors,  and  add  to  the  comforts  of  many  a  happy  fireside. 
The  reader  will  rise  from  each  chapter,  not  able,  perhaps,  to  carry  with  him 
many  striking  re-mark*  or  apparent  paradoxes,  but  he  will  have  a  sweet  im- 
pression made  upon  his  soul,  like  that  which  soft  and  touching  music  maket 
when  every  thing  about  it  is  appropriate.  The  writer  pours  forth  a  clear  and 
beautiful  light,  like  that  of  the  evening  lighthouse,  when  it  sheds  its  rays  upon 
the  sleeping  waters, and  cover-  tin-in  with  a  surface  of  gold.  We  can  nave  no 
sympathy  with  a  heart  which  yields  Dot  to  impressions  delicate  and  holy, 
which  the  perusal  of  this  work  will  naturally  make."  —  //onyuAtre  Gazette. 

MISCELLANIES  ;  Consisting  principally  of  Sermons  and  Essays. 
With  an  introductory  Essay  and  notes,  by  J.  BELCHER,  D.D. 
16mo.  Price  76  cents. 

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of  the  closet  and  the  Christian  fireside."  —  Rancor  Gaiette. 

MAMMON  ;  Or,  Covetousness,  the  Sin  of  the  Christian  Church. 
A  Prize  Essay.  18mo.  Price  46  cents.  Twentieth  thousand. 

ZEBULON;  Or,  the  Moral  Claims  of  Seamen  stated  and  en- 
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THE  ACTIVE  CHRISTIAN;  Containing  "The  Witnessing 
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CHUBCH  HISTORY.  —  POLITY  AND  MEMBERSHIP. 


THE  APOSTOLICAL  AND  PRIMITIVE  CHURCH ;  Popular 
in  its  government  and  simple  in  its  worship.  By  LTMAM 
COLK.MAN.  With  an  introductory  essay,  by  Dr.  ArcoBTUB 
NEANDKK,  of  Berlin.  Second  Kdit.  12m"o.  cloth.  Price  $1.25. 

From  the  Prmfutort  in  Andorer  Theoloijical  Seminary. 
"  The  undersigned  are  pleased  to  hear  that  you  are  toon  to  publish  a  new 
edition  of  the  '  Primitive  Church,'  by  I.YWAK  COLEUAH.     They  regard  thii 
roluine   »  the  result  of  extcmive  and  original  rc»<  nrch  ;  a*  embodying  Terr 
important  materials  for  reference,  much  sound  thought  .  argu 

ment  In  their  estimation.  It  may  both  Interest  and  instruct  the  intelligent 
layman,  may  be  profitably  used  as  a  Text  Book  for  Theological  Student*, 
•nd  should  'especially  form  a  part  of  the  libraries  of  clergy  men.  The  intro- 
duction, by  NEANDIE,  if  of  luclf  sufficient  to  rcconnn.nl  ll.e  volume  to 
the  literary  public."  L.EOXAKD  WOODS,  BELA  II.  EDWARDS, 

RALPH  EMEBSOH,  EUWAKU  A.  PAKK. 

THE  CHURCH  MEMBER'S  HAND  BOOK.  A  Guide  to 
the  Doctrines  and  Practices  of  Baptist  Churches.  By  Rev. 
WILLIAM  CROWKLL.  18mo.  Cloth.  Price  37^  cents. 

"  We  hnrf  nerer  met  with  *  book  of  this  «*•  that  oonlained  so  full  nnd  complete  a 
•yimpsM  of  the  Doctrines  and  Practice  of  lite  Baptist,  or  any  other  church,  as  this.  Mr 
Crow  11  is  one  of  UK  nbt-st  writers  in  the  denomin  <ti..n.  »•'<!  if  <!IT  it  4  «ulij-ct  hi  the 
whole  rann  of  Christianity  which  be  is  prr-emiti-nilt  qu«lifte<l  to  th«cii«,  ii  is  (lie  out 
bclorr  m.  "I  be  •  Hand  Book  '  is  not  an  abridgment  of  the  •  Church  MemU-r '•  Maa- 
ual,"  by  the  same  author,  hut  is  written  exprislj  as  •  brief,  pbUn  fuMe  to  jognj  SBenv 
ksn  of  the  churci.  It  »pp-*r»  to  hate  been  prepared  with  much  care  ami  lalor,  and 
Is  Just  such  a  book  aa  is  oiede.l  bv  e»*rr  younjr  chuich  raetnbr-r ;  w«  mipht  ssMr  add, 
and  br  mott  at  the  older  merobrii  in  the  il-noinm.lwn  ;  for  then  is  a  »»rt  amount  of 
Mbnoatioa  io  k  that  will  IK  found  of  practical  use  to  all. "  —  Ckrit*a*  Stcnttrf. 

"  It  is  eoncWe,  clear,  and  camprehensire ;  and,  us  an  imposition  of  ecel«sias'leal  prks- 
chilcs)  >nd  practise,  Is  worthy  of  currM  studj  of  all  Ihevonns;  menM>n  "(»•>•  church-s. 
We  hope  k  ma;  be  widely  circulated,  »ml  thut  the  yo.uhf.,1  iMxisaixls  of  our  Israel 
may  brcome  fxmilk>r  with  its  pa;  •»."  —  H  alc/inun  and  Rtjttclor. 

THE  CHURCH  IN  EARNEST;    By  JOHJC  ASGELL  JAMKS. 

18mo.  cloth ;  price  50  cents. 

••  A  Tery  seasonable  publication.  The  church  universal  needs  a  re-awakening 
to  Its  high  rotation,  and  this  la  a  book  to  effect,  so  far  as  human  intellect  can,  the 
mneh  desired  resuscitation."  —  .V.  Y.  Oom.  A<ir. 

"  We  are  glad  to  see  that  this  subject  has  angled  the  pen  of  Mr.  James.  We 
welcome  and  commend  it.  I*t  it  be  scattered  like  autumn  leaves.  We  believe 
its  perusal  will  do  much  to  Impress  a  conviction  of  the  high  mission  of  the  Chris- 
tian, and  much  to  arouse  the  Christian  to  fulfil  it."  —  A.  1'.  Krcorder. 

"  We  rejoice  that  this  work  has  been  republished  to  this  country,  and  we  e*n- 
nottoo  jtrongly  commend  it  to  the  serious   perusal  of  the  churches  i 
name." —  Chriitiim  AUiance. 

"  Mr.  James's  writings  all  hare  one  object,  to  do  execution.  He  writes  under 
the  Impulse  —  Do  something,  do  it.  He  studies  not  to  be  a  profound  or  lcan>«d, 
bat  a  practical  writer.  He  aims  to  raise  the  standard  of  piety,  holmes*  in  the 
heart,  and  holiness  of  life.  The  influence  which  thU  work  will  exert  on  tht 
church  must  be  highly  salutary." — Boston  Kecorder. 

TIIK  CHVRCH  MEMBER'S  GUIDE.  By  Rev.  J.  A.  JAMBS. 
Ktlitc«l  bv  Rev.  J.  0.  CHOULES.  New  Edition  ;  with  an  Intro- 
ductory Essay,  by  Rev.  H.  WIMSLOW.  Ibmo.  cloth.  Price  36 
cents. 

A  pastor  write*— "I  iineerely  wish  that  erery  professor  of  religion  In  tti« 
land  may  possesa  this  excellent  manual.  I  am  anxious  that  every  member 
of  my  chnn-h  should  possess  it,  aud  shall  be  happy  to  promote  its  circulation 
itill  more  extensively." 

"The  spontaneous  effusion  of  our  heart,  on  laying  the  book  down,  wa*,-- 
may  every  church-member  In  onr  land  soon  possess  this  book,  and  be  blesse< 
with  all  the  happiness  which  conformity  to  Its  evangelic  sentiments  and 
dsMCtions  is  calculated  to  confer."  -  Vkrittia*  Secrttan/. 


THE  WORKS  OF  JENKYN— CHURCH -KEMPIS. 


THE  EXTENT  OF  THE  ATONEMENT,  in  its  relation  to  God 
and  the  Universe.  By  THOMAS  W.  JESK.YN,  D.D.  12mo. 
cloth.  Price  85  cents. 

"We  have  examined  this  work  with  profound  Interest  and  become  deeply 
Impressed  with  its  value.  Its  style  is  lucid,  its  analysis  perfect,  lu  spirit  and 
tendencies  eminently  evangelical.  We  have  nowhere  else  seen  the  atone- 
ment su  clearly  denned,  or  vindicated  on  grounds  so  appreciable." 

MM  York  Recorder. 

"As  a  treatise  on  the  grand  relation  of  the  Atonement,  it  is  a  book  which 
may  be  emphatically  snid  to  conUin  the  •  seeds  of  things,'  the  elements  of 
mightier  and  nobler  contributions  of  thought  respecting  the  sacrifice  of  Christ, 
than  any  modern  production.  It  is  characterized  by  highly  original  and 
dens*  trains  of  thought,  which  make  the  reader  feel  that  he  is  holding  com- 
munion with  a  mind  that  can  '  mingle  with  the  universe..'  We  consider  this 
volume  as  setting  the  long  and  fiercely  agitated  question,  as  to  the  extent  of 
the  Atonement,  completely  at  rest.  Posterity  will  thank  the  author  till  the 
latest  ages,  for  his  illustrious  arguments."  —  Ann  fort  Kraaoelut. 

THE  UNION  OF  THE  HOLY  SPIRIT  AND  THE  CHURCH. 

in  the  Conversion  of  the  World.  By  THOMAS  \V.  JKNK.YS, 
D.D.  12mo.,  cloth.  Price  85  cents. 

"  The  discussion  Is  eminently  scriptural,  placing  its  grand  theme,  the  union 
of  the  H.ily  Spirit  and  the  Church  in  the  conversion  of  the  world,  in  a  verf 
Clear  and  affecting  light."  —  Christian  Watchman. 

"  A  very  excellent  work  upon  a  very  Important  subject  The  author  seem? 
to  have  stiiditd  it  in  all  its  benrings,  as  presented  to  his  contemplation  in  th* 
•acred  volume."  —  Lonilon  Ei-a-vjelical  Magazine. 

"  Fine  talent,  sound  learning,  and  scriptural  piety  pervade  every  page.  It  is 
Impossible  that  it  can  be  read  without  producing  great  effects.  Mr.  Jenkyn 
deserves  the  thanks  of  the  whole  body  of  Christians  for  a  book  which  will 
greatly  benefit  the  world  and  the  church."  —  London  Evaxijelitt. 

ANTIOfH  ;  Or,  Increase  of  Moral  Power  in  the  Church  of 
Christ.  By  Rev.  P.  CHURCH.  With  an  Introductory  Essay, 
by  BARON  STOW,  D.D.  18mo.,  cloth.  Price  60  cents. 

"ltd  a  book  of  close  and  consecutive  thought,  and  treats  of  subjects  which 
•re  of  the  deepest  Interest,  at  the  present  time,  to  the  churches  of  this  country. 
The  author  is  favorably  known  to  the  religious  public,  as  an  original  thinker, 
and  •  forcible  writer."  —  Christian  Reflector. 

"  By  some  this  book  will  be  condemned,  by  many  It  will  be  read  with 
pleasure,  because  it  analyses  and  renders  tangible,  principles  that  have  been 
Tajrndy  conceived  in  many  minds,  reluctantly  promulgated,  and  hesitatingly 
believed.  We  advise  our  brethren  to  read  the  book,  and  judge  for  them- 
•alvea."  —  Kaplitt  Record. 

•It  Is  the  work  of  an  original  thinker,  on  a  subject  of  great  practical  Interest 
to  the  church.  It  is  replete  with  suggestions,  which,  in  our  view,  an  emi- 
nently worthy  of  consideration."  —  Fhila.  Chriitian  Observer. 

THE  IMITATION  OF  CHRIST.  By  THOMAS  A  KEMPIS. 
With  an  Introductory  Essay,  by  T.  CHALMEJIS,  D.D.  A  new 
and  improved  edition.  Edited  by  H.  MALCOM,  D.D.  18mo., 
cloth.  Price  38  cents. 

THE  PERSON  AND  WORK  OF  CHRIST.  By  ERNBST 
SARTORIUS,  D.  D.  Translated  from  the  German,  by  ROT. 
O.  S.  STEARNS,  A.  M.  Cloth.  42  cents. 

"  A  work  of  much  Ability,  anil  presenting  the  argument  in  a  ityle  that 
will  be  new  to  moat  American  readers,  it  will  deservedly  attract  atten- 
tion."—A".  Y.  Otatrvar. 


MEMOIRS  OF  DISTINGUISHED  MISSIONARIES. 


MEMOIR  OF  ANN  H.  JUDSON.  late  Missionary  to  Burmah. 
By  Rev.  JAMKS  D.  KXUWI.ES.  With  a  likeness.  12mo.,  fin« 
Edition,  price  86  cents.  18ino.  Price  58  cents. 

"  We  are  particularly  gratified  to  perceive  a  new  edition  of  the  Memoirs  of 
Mrs.  Judson.  She  was  an  honor  to  our  country —one  of  the  most  noble- 
spirited  of  her  sex.  It  cannot,  therefore,  be  surprising,  that  so  many  editions, 
and  so  many  thousand  copies  of  her  life  and  adventures  have  been  sold. 
The  name  — the  long  career  of  suffering  —  the  self-sacrificing  Bpirit  of  the 
retired  country-girl,  have  spread  over  the  wlmle  w..rld  ;  and  the  heroism  of 
her  apostleship  and  almost  martyrdom,  stands  out  a  living  and  heavenly 
beaeon-flre.  amid  the  dark  midnight  of  ages,  and  human  history  and  exploits. 
She  was  the  first  woman  who  resolved  to  become  a  missionary  to  heathen 
countries."  —American  Traveller. 

"  This  is  one  of  the  most  Interesting  pieces  of  female  biography  which  ha* 
ever  come  under  our  notice.  No  quotation,  which  our  limits  allow,  would  do 
Justice  to  the  facts,  and  we  must,  therefore,  refer  our  readers  to  the  volume 
Itself.  It  ought  to  be  immediately  added  to  every  family  library." 

London  Mitcellant. 

MEMOIR  OF  GEORGE  DANA  BOARDMAN,  Late  Missionary 
to  Burmah,  containing  much  intelligence  relative  to  the  Bur- 
man  mission.  By  Rev.  ALONZO  KING.  EmbellNhud  with  a 
Likeness;  a  beautiful  Vignette,  representing  the  baptismal 
scene  just  before  his  death  ;  and  a  drawing  of  his  tomb.  By 
Rev.  H.  MALCOM,  D.D.  12ino.  Price  75  cents. 

"  One  of  the  brightest  luminaries  of  Burmah  is  extinguished  —  dear  brother 
Boanlmun  is  gone  to  his  eternal  rest  He  fell  gloriously  at  the  head  of  his 
troops  — in  the  arms  of  victory,  —  thirty-eight  wild  Karens  having  been 
brought  into  the  camp  of  king  Jesus  since  the  beginning  of  the  year,  beside* 
the  thirty-two  that  were  brought  in  during  the  two  preceding  years.  Dis- 
abled by  wounds,  he  was  obliged,  through  the  whole  of  the  la.it  expedition,  to 
be  earned  on  a  litter  ;  but  his  presence  was  a  host,  and  the  Holy  Spirit  accom- 
panied his  dying  whispers  with  almighty  influence."  —  Jtiv.  JJr.  Judtom. 

MEMOIR  OF  MRS.  HENRIETTA  SHUCK,  The  first  American 
Female  Missionary  to  China.  By  Rev.  J.  B.  JETEK.  With  a 
Likeness.  Fourth  thousand.  16mo.  Price  50  cents. 

"The  style  of  the  author  Is  sedate  and  perspicuous,  such  as  we  might 
expect  from  his  known  piety  and  learning,  his  attachment  to  missions,  and 
the  amiable  lady  »  hose  memory  he  embalms.  The  book  will  be  extensively 
read  and  eminently  useful,  and  thus  the  ends  sought  by  the  author  will  be 
happily  secured.  We  think  we  are  not  mistaken  in  this  opinion.  Those 
who  are  interested  in  China,  that  large  opening  field  for  the  glorious  con- 
quests of  divine  truth,  will  be  interested  In  this  Memoir.  To  the  friends  of 
missions  generally,  the  book  is  commended,  u  worthy  of  an  attentive  peru- 
sal."— The  Fa  mill/  Vuitor,  Button. 

MEMOIR  OF  REV.  WILLIAM  G.  CROCKER,  Lato  Missionary 
in  West  Africa,  among  the  Rassas,  Including  a  History  of  the 
Mission.  By  R.  B.  MEDBEKY.  With  a  likeness.  18mo. 
Price  62M  cents. 

"  Our  acquaintance  with  the  excellent  brother,  who  Is  the  subject  of  this 
Memoir,  will  be  long  and  fondly  cherished.  This  volume,  prepared  by  a  lady, 
of  true  taste  and  talent,  and  of  a  kindred  spirit,  while  it  is  but  a  just  tribute 
to  his  worth,  will,  we  doubt  not,  furnish  lessons  of  humble  and  practical  piety, 
and  will  give  such  facts  relative  to  the  mission  to  which  he  devoted  his  life,  as 
to  render  it  worth/  a  distinguished  place  among  the  religious  and  missionary 
biography  which  has  so  much  enriched  the  family  of  ' 


WORKS  ON  MISSIONS. 


THE  MISSIONARY  ENTERPRISE  ;  A  Collection  of  Discourses 
on  Christian  Missions,  by  American  Authors.  Edited  by 
BARON  STOW,  D.D.  12mo.,  cloth.  Price  85  cents.  I 

"  If  we  desired  to  put  into  the  hand)  of  «  foreigner  a  fair  exhibition  of  the 
capacity  and  spirit  of  the  American  church,  we  would  give  him  thl«  volume. 
You  have  here  thrown  together  a  few  discourses,  preached  from  time  to  time, 
by  different  individual*,  of  different  denomination*,  as  circumstance!  have 
demanded  them  ;  ti.d  yon  see  the  stature  and  feel  the  pulse  of  the  American 
Church  in  these  discourses  with  a  certainty  not  to  be  mistaken. 

"  You  see  the  high  talent  of  the  American  church.  We  venture  the  asser- 
tion, that  no  nation  In  the  world  has  such  an  amount  of  forceful,  available 
talent  in  Its  pulpit.  The  energy,  directness,  scope,  and  intellectual  spirit  of 
the  American  church  if  wonderful.  In  this  book,  the  discourses  Dy  Dr. 
Beechcr,  1'res.  Wa  viand,  and  the  Rev.  Dr.  Stone  of  the  Episcopal  church,  are 
among  the  very  highett  exhibitions  of  logical  correctness,  and  burning,  popu- 
lar fervor.  This  volume  will  have  a  wide  circulation." — The  Jfew  Enguauler. 

"  This  work  contains  fifteen  sermons  on  Missions,  by  Rev.  Drs.  Wayland, 
Griffin,  Andenon,  Williams,  Beecher,  Miller,  Fuller,  Beman,  Stone,  Mason, 
and  by  Kev.  Messrs.  Kirk,  Stow,  and  Ide.  It  is  a  rich  treasure,  which  ought 
to  be  in  the  possession  of  every  American  Christian."—  Oarolina  Kaptitt. 

THE  GREAT  COMMISSION  ;  Or,  the  Christian  Church  consti- 
tuted and  charged  to  convey  the  Gospel  to  the  world.  A  Prize 
Essav.  By  John  HARRIS,  D.D.  With  an  Introductory  Essay, 
by  \V.  R.  WILLIAMS,  D.D.  Sixth  thousand.  12mo.,  cloth. 
Price  $1.00. 

"  His  plan  Is  original  and  comprehensive.  In  filling  It  np  the  author  has 
Interwoven  facts  with  rich  and  glowing  illustrations,  and  with  trains  of 
thought  that  are  sometimes  almost  resistless  In  their  appeals  to  the  conscience. 
The  work  is  not  more  distinguished  for  its  arguments  and  its  genius,  than  for 
the  spirit  of  deep  and  fervent  piety  that  pervades  it."—  The  Dav>i<ring. 

"  Its  style  is  remarkably  chaste  and  elegant  Its  sentiments  richly  and  (fer- 
vently evangelical,  its  argumentation  conclusive."  —  Zion't  Herald,  liosum. 

"  To  recommend  this  work  to  the  friends  of  missions  of  all  denominations 
would  be  but  faint  praise ;  the  author  deserves  and  will  undoubtedly  receive 
the  credit  of  having  applied  a  new  lever  to  that  great  moral  machine  which, 
by  the  blessing  of  Cod,  is  destined  to  evangelize  the  world." 

Christian  Secretary,  Hartford. 

"  We  hope  that  the  rolnrne  will  be  attentively  and  prayerfully  read  by  the 
whole  church,  which  arc  clothed  with  the  "  Great  Commission  "  to  evangelize 
the  world,  and  that  they  will  be  moved  to  an  Immediate  discharge  of  Its  high 
and  momentous  obligations. — -V.  K.  Puritan,  Boston. 

THE  KAREN  APOSTLE ;  Or,  Memoir  of  Ko  THAH-BYD,  the 
first  Karen  convert  with  notices  concerning  his  Nation.  Bv  the 
Kev.  FRANCIS  MASON.  Edited  by  Prof.  H.  J.  BIFLEY.  fifth 
thousand.  16mo.,  cloth.  Price  26  cents. 

"  This  is  a  work  of  thrilling  interest,  containing  the  history  of  a  remarkable 
man,  and  giving,  also,  much  information  respecting  the  Karen  Mission,  here- 
tofore unknown  in  this  country.  It  gives  an  account,  which  must  be  attrac- 
tive, from  its  novelty,  of  a  people  that  have  been  but  little  known  and  visited 
by  missionaries,  till  within  a  few  years.  The  baptism  of  Ko  Thah-Byu,  la 
1M8.  was  the  beginning  of  the  mission,  and  at  the  end  of  these  twelve  yean, 
twelve  hundred  and  seventy  Karens  are  officially  reported  as  members  of  th« 
churches,  in  good  standing.  The  mission  has  been  carried  on  pre-eminently 
by  the  Karens  themselves,  and  there  is  no  doubt,  from  much  touching  evi- 
dence contained  in  this  volume,  that  th*r  are  a  people  peculiarly  susceptible 
to  religious  impressions." 


HYMN    BOOKS. 


THE  PSALMIST :    A  New  Collection  of  Hymn«,  for  the  use 

of  the  Rnp'ixt  Churches.     By  KAIJON  Sn>-,v  ami  S.  !•".  SMITH. 

i    by    U.   C.  \Viiii:,':n«,  Oeo.  B.  Me,  1!.  \V.  Uriswdd, 

S.  P.  Hill,  J.'B.  Taylor,   J.  L.  Dnee,  W.  T.  Bruntly,   K.  B.  C. 

Howell,  bainucl  \V.  l.yirl,  :uul  .luh;i  M.  l'ci-k. 

Pnlpit  (.•  •li'i'ni,  12mo.  sheep.  1'rice  sl.'J.O.  Pew  edition.  ISmo., 
75  cents.  Pocket  edition,  32mo.,  OGU  ft*. —  All  tlie  different 
sizes  supplied  in  extra  styles  of  Liudiug  at  corresponding 
prices. 

*,*  Thli  work  It  mny  be  tiij,  hu  become  THK  BOOK  of  the  Biptirt  denomi- 
nation, having  been  introduced  extensively  Into  every  State  in  the  U»ion, 
and  the  British  province*.  A*  a  collection  of  hymns  it  stands  unrivalled. 

The  united  testimony  of  pastor*  of  the  Baptist  churches  in  Boston  and 
Tlclnlty,  In  New  York,  and  in  Philadelphia,  of  the  most  decided  and  flatter- 
ing character,  has  been  givru  in  favor  of  the  book.  Also,  by  the  Profeasnn  !• 
Hamilton  Literary  and  Theological  Institution,  and  the  Newton  Theological 
Institution.  The  fame,  also,  has  been  done  by  a  great  nnmber  of  clergymen, 
churches.  Associations,  and  Conventions,  in  every  State  of  the  I'r.ion. 

The  following  notice,  from  the  Miami  Association,  of  Ohio,  is  but  a  speci- 
men of  a  host  of  others,  received  by  the  publisher* : 

•Your  Committee  recommend  to  the  attention  of  the  Churches, the  new 
work  called  •  The  Psalmist,'  as  worthy  of  special  patronage.  1.  It  !«  exceed- 
ingly desirable  that  our  whole  denomination  should  u«e  in  the  i>r«..rc<  of  th« 
sanctuary  the  same  psalm*,  hymns,  and  spiritual  songs.  To  secure  uniformity, 
we  prefer  '  The  Psalmist,'  because  it  is  strictly,  and  from  the  foundation, 
iVusgsna  for  the  use  of  Baptist  churches,  —  is  not  surpassed  by  any  Hymn 
Book  in  the  world.  2.  It  ha*  been  prepared  with  the  greatest  care.  In  no 
instance  ha*  a  Hymn  Book  gone  through  so  thorough  a  revision.  3.  It  is  a 
book  of  very  superior  merit*.  The  Committee  then-tore  recommend  to  th« 
churches  the  adoption  of  this  work  a*  well  calculated  to  elevate  the  taste  and 
the  devotion  of  the  denomination." 

THE  PSALMIST,  WITH  A  SUPPLEMENT,  By  RICHARD 
FULLER,  of  Baltimore,  and  J.  B.  JETER,  of  Richmond.  (Style 
and  prices  s:\me  as  above.) 

*,*This  work  contains  nearly  thirtrm  htmrfrrd  Aymn-»,  original  and  selected, 
by  172  writers,  besides  pieces  credited  to  fifty-five  collections  of  hymns  or  other 
work*, the  authorship  of  which  b  unknown.  Forty-five  are  anonymous,  being 
traced  neither  to  authors  nor  collections. 

TB«  SUPPLEMENT,  occupying  the  place  of  the  Chants,  which  in  many 
lections  of  the  country  are  seldom  used,  was  undertaken  by  Rev.  MUSTS. 
Fuller  and  .Icier,  at  the  solicitation  of  friends  at  the  South. 

•  The  Psalmist  contains  a  copious  supply  of  excellent  hymns  for  th« 
pulpit  We  an  acquainted  with  no  collection  of  hymns  combining.  In  an 
equal  degree,  poetic  merit,  evangelical  sentiment,  ami  a  rii-h  variety  of  sub- 
jects, with  a  hnppy  adaptation  to  pulpit  «rrviir«.  i  >..!  M.ng%,  like  old  friends, 
are  more  valuable  than  new  ones.  A  nnmber  of  the  hymn*  hrst  known,  most 
Talned,  and  most  frequently  snng  in  the  South,  are  not  fun  ml  in  the  Psalmist. 
'Without  them,  no  hymn  book,  whatever  maybe  its  excellences,  is  likely  to 
become  generally  or  permanently  popular  in  that  region."—  Prt/acc. 

COMPANION  FOR  THE  PSALMIST.  Containing  Original 
Music.  Arranged  for  Hymns  in  '  The  I'^Umist,'  of  pecnliai 
character  and  metre.  By  N.  D.  GOULD.  Pric«  12X  cents. 

WINCHELL'S  WATTS.     WATTS  AND  R1PPON. 


VALUABLE  WORKS  ON  BAPTISM. 


JEWETT  ON  BAPTISM.  The  Mode  and  Subject*  of  Baptism. 
By  Jhu>  P.  JEWKTT,  A.M.,  lute  1'rotessor  in  Marietta  College 
and  a  Hut-used  Minister  of  the  Presbyterian  Church.  Tenth 
thousand.  Price  25  cents. 

Rev.  J.  R.  Graves,  one  of  the  editor*  of  the  Tennessee  Baptist,  In  a  recent 
number  ul'  hi«  paper,  lays :  "  Who  will  write  the  history  of  one  little  Jftrrtt  on 
Hapti-m  '•  Hundreds  in  our  land  hare  been  converted  to  the  truth  by  Derat- 
ing that  book.  In  the  pait  year,  Remington,  an  able  Methodist  preacher,  read 
that  work.  It  recalled  in  his  cooveniou  —he  wrote  /.u'  reasons,'  »ud  thtj 
eonverti-.l  another  preacher,  and  the  pebble  thus  thrown  by  Bro  Jewvtt  in  the 
tea  of  mind,  produced  a  ware  which  produced  another,  and  thus  In  long  tue- 
eession  they  »ill  travel  on,  each  producing  iu  successor  until  they  break  on 
the  ihora*  of  eternity.  I«  the  object  nut  a  commendable  one  ?  It  is  pouring 
oil  upon  the  unresting  wave  of  religious  mind,  lashed  by  angry  discussions. 
Such  I*  .oka  read  in  solitude  with  ouc'j  Bible  and  his  God,  will  huah  the  tarn- 
pest  of  his  own  soul  to  rest." 

JUDSON  ON  BAPTISM.  A  Discourse  on  Christian  Baptism; 
with  many  quotations  from  Pedobapist  authors.  To  which  are 
added  a  letter  to  the  church  in  Plymouth,  Ms.,  and  an  address 
on  th«  mode  of  baptizing.  By  "ADOSIRAM  .h DSON.  Fifth 
American  edition,  revised  and  enlarged  by  the  Author.  18mo. 
Price  2,j  e 

•»•  This  work  is  now  published  In  book  form,  and  having  been  thoroughly 
rerised  and  enlarged  by  its  venerable  author,  while  in  this  country.  It  will  bsi 
•ought  for  and  read  with  Interest  by  all. 

"It  is  aclesr,  calm,  and  convincing  view  of  the  futility  of  the  distinguish- 
ing points  of  1'edobaptism,  and  a  rational  and  scriptural  defence  of  the 
baptism  of  persons  of  suitable  age  aud  qualifications,  and  in  the  manner 
prescribed  in  the  New  Testament*—  Ckrirlian  Review,  Dec.  1847. 

ESSAY  ON  CHRISTIAN  BAPTISM.  By  Rev.  BAPTIST 
W.  NOEL.  "  He  that  believeth  and  is  baptized  shall  be 
saved."  16mo.  Cloth.  Price  60  cents. 

Sftiart  /ram  Prtfact.  —During  mjr  n.inia'ry  in  the  estaMishment,  an  Indrfniie 

feu  ol  U.«  eoociusiuo*  «t  which  I  ru.gSt  arrive,  Iwl  me  to  arokl  the  study  of  u>  ques- 

.'U*^cU  tu  exaniinr  hooescjy  each  pusiagv  of  J>chpiure  upon 

•v  <hu*  olH»in.M  cofivineril  me  thai 

irr^ni  •'••<•-  *nd  faith  AurM  »  nreOHle  bnpiisin.  Aware  |K>W  nmny  an  dbpoaad  lo 
altflilMiia  «itf  op*Mos>  wsjisticoitirjulic'.s  Uicir  own,  to  such  a  pariioj,  otie-suled  inTe»u- 
ntion  .-iii»-l»ri,  I  litfrniinrd  u>  fuim  my  own  joil^-mrnt  rauVly 

by  uv  <to  '»  al  ihr  DcrindiTV,  and  of  such  sultanas  advooia  uV  bupimm  of  intanu. 
To  th.it  .t»i'nr.iii«uon  I  have  adhcml ;  mid  noi  having  mid  a  single  Baptist  book  or 
inf  work  as  an  independent  mllinonj  to  the  exclusive  right 


THE  CHRISTIAN  REVIEW.   A  Quarterly  Publication.    Edited 
by  .1.  I>.  KXOWI.KS.  BARNAS  SEARS,  and  S.  F.  SMITH. 

A   limited   number  of   complete  seta,   from    U36  to  1843 
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A  !'••  the  work,  from  vol.  2  to  vol.  8  inclusive, 

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This  work  contains  valuable  contributions  from  all  the  lending  men  of  th« 
Baptist  denomination,  and  is  an  Important  acqui»ition  to  anv  library.  Th« 
present  opportunity  to  secure  seta  of  the  early  volumes  of  tins  work  at  tnui 
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posaesi  it,  and  may  never  again  have  so  favorable  an  opportunity,  as  tM 
Hock  on  hand  is  limited. 


RIPLEY'S  NOTES.  — CRUDEN'S  CONCORDANCE. 


THE  FOUR  GOSPELS,  WITH  NOTES.  Chiefly  Explanatory; 
intended  principally  for  Sabbath  School  Teachers  and  Bible 
Classes,  and  as  an  aid  to  Family  Instruction.  I'v  II.  J. 
RIPI.KY.  With  a  Map  of  Palestine.  Eighth  thousand."  12mo., 
half  morocco.  Price  $1.25. 

"  The  undersigned,  having  examined  Professor  Ripley's  Notes  on  the  (',"»- 
pelt,  can  recommend  them  with  rontidence  to  all  who  need  lUch  helps  in  the 
study  of  the  tarred  Scriptures.  Those  passages  which  all  can  understand  arc 
left  •without  note  or  comment,'  and  the  principal  labor  is  devoted  to  the 
explanation  of  such  parts  at  need  to  be  explained  and  rescued  from  the  per- 
versions of  errorists,  both  the  ignorant  and  the  learned.  The  practical  sug- 
gestions at  the  close  of  each  chapter,  are  not  the  least  valuable  portion  of  the 
work.  Most  cordially,  for  the  sate  of  truth  and  righteousness,  do  we  wish  for 
ttieie  Note*  a  wide  circulation." 

BAROV  STOW,         R.  H.  NEALK,  R.  TCRXBCLL, 

DAMRI.  SIIAKP,      J.  W.  PAKKEE,         N.  COLTER, 
WM.  HAOI-E,  R.  W.  CUSMMAX,      J.  W.  Bos  WORTH. 

THE  ACTS  OF  THE  APOSTLES.  WITH  NOTES.  Chiefly 
Explanatory.  Designed  for  Teachers  in  Sabbath  Schools  and 
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*  On  examining  the  contents,  we  are  favorably  Impressed,  first,  by  the  won- 
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secondly,  by  the  "completeness  and  systematic  arrangement  of  the  work,  in  all 
Its  ports  ;  thirdly,  by  the  correct  theology,  solid  inntruetion,  and  consistent 
explanations  of  difficult  passages.  The  work  cannot  fail  to  be  received  with 
favor."  —  t'krutian  Reflector,  Button. 

CRUDEN'S  CONDENSED  CONCORDANCE.  A  Complete 
Concordance  to  the  Holy  Scriptures ;  by  ALEXAXDKR  CRD- 
DEN,  M.A.  A  New  and  Condensed  Edition,  with  nn  Introduc- 
tion ;  by  Rev.  DAVID  KING,  LL.D.  Fifth  Thousand.  Price, 
in  Boards,  $1.25  ;  Sheep,  $1.50. 

»,*  This  edition  is  printed  from  English  plates,  and  Is  a  full  and  fair  copy 
of  all  that  is  valuable  in  Cruden  as  a  Concordance.  The  condensation  of  the 
quotations  of  Scripture,  arranged  under  their  most  obvious  heads,  while  it 
diminishes  the  bulk  of  the  work,  greatly  facilitates  the  finding  of  any  required 
passage. 

"  Those  who  have  been  acquainted  with  the  various  works  of  thti  kind 
now  In  use,  well  know  that  Cruden's  Concordance  far  excels  all  others.  Yet 
we  have  in  this  edition  the  best  made  better.  That  is,  the  present  is  better 
adapted  to  the  purpones  of  a  Concordance,  by  the  erasure  of  superfluous 
reference^  the  omission  of  unnecessary  explanations.  f\nd  the  contraction  of 
quotations.  &c. ;  It  is  better  as  a  manua'l,  and  is  better  adapted  by  Its  price  to 
the  means  of  many  who  need  and  ought  to  possess  such  a  work,  than  the 
former  larger  and  expensive  edition."  —  Bntirm  Recorder. 

"  The  new,  condensed,  and  cheap  work  prepared  from  the  voluminous  and 
costly  one  of  Cruden.  opportunely  fills  a  chasm  in  our  Biblicnl  litcratum. 
The  work  has  been  examined  critically,  and  pronounced  complete  and  accu- 
rate." —  Baptist  Record,  Philadelphia. 

"  This  is  the  very  work  of  which  we  have  long  frit  the  need,  and  we  an 
touch  pleased  that  its  enterprising  publishers  can  now  furnish  the  student  at 
the  Bible  with  a  work  which  he  so  much  needs  at  so  cheap  a  rutc." 

Atli-tnt  Herald,  Ration, 

"  We  cannot  »ee  but  it  Is.  in  all  point*,  as  valuable  a  book  of  reference,  for 
•Ontotcn  and  Bible  students,  as  the  larger  edition.-  -  Ohrunan  fajltrtor. 


FOR  SABBATH  SCHOOLS. 


MALCOM'S  BIBLE  DICTIONARY.  A  Dictionary  of  the 
most  important  Names,  Objects,  and  Terms,  found  in  the 
Holy  Scriptures;  intended  principally  for  Sunday  School 
Teachers  and  Bible  Classes.  By  H.  'MALCOM,  D.D.  Illus- 
trated by  Engravings.  18mo.  half  morocco.  One  Hundreth 
thousand.  Price  60  cts. 

"  All  who  for  a  moment  recur  to  the  fact,  that  large  folio*  would  not  infll- 
eiently  elucidate  the  subjects  which  are  brought  to  view  in  the  Bible,  will  at 
once  fee  the  difficulty  which  the  author  must  hare  felt, In  compressing  all  the 
information  which  he  has  so  judiciously  condensed.  If  any  should  inquire. 
Why  hare  we  not  more,  the  theinei  being  «o  numerom?  let  such  an  one  look 
•gain,  and,  perhaps,  in  his  surprise,  he  will  exclaim.  How  is  it,  that,  in  a  book 
so  completely  portable,  we  hare  so  much?  to  have  made  a  larger  book,  a* 
could  have  been  done  with  for  less  labor  than  this  cost,  might  have  placed  it 
beyond  the  reach  of  many,  to  whom  it  will  now  be  useful.  All  who  know  the 
allusions  to  ancient  customs,  and  Jewish  usages  iu  Eastern  countries,  with 
which  the  Bible  abounds,  will  discover  something  of  the  worth  of  this  volume. 
It  is  very  neatly  printed  on  handsome  type  and  fine  paper,  and  will,  we 
doubt  nut,  meet,  as  it  deserves,  a  ready  sale."  —  Cfiriitian  Watchman. 

HAGUE'S  GUIDE  TO  CONVERSATION  on  the  New  Testament 
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Vol.  I.  Matthew,— Vol.  II.  John.  By  Rev.  WM.  HAGUE. 
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SABBATH  SCHOOL  CLASS  BOOK.  Comprising  copious 
Exercises  on  the  Sacred  Scriptures.  By  E.  LINCOLN.  Revised 
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dent. Price  12>£  cents. 

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scholar  in  the  study  of  hi*  lesson,  and  in  suggesting  topics  of  conversation  to 
the  teacher.  To  this  end  we  think  your  work  is  well  adapted  ;  having  avoided 
In  a  great  degree,  the  evils  of  extreme  redundance  or  conciseness. 

Wx.  HAGUE,  II.  MALCOU, 

E.  THRESHKR,  BAKU.V  STOW. 

LINCOLN'S  SCRIPTURE  QUESTIONS,  With  the  answers 
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•.*  Where  Bibles  cannot  be  furnished  to  each  scholar,  the  Scripture  Ques- 
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THE  SABBATH  SCHOOL  HARMONY;  containing  appropri- 
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SCRIPTURE  NATURAL  HISTORY.  Containing  a  Descriptive 
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mentioned  in  the  Bible.  By  WM.  CARPENTER,  London;  with 
improvement",  by  Rev.  G.  I).  ABBOTT.  Illustrated  by  numer 
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REV.  HARVEY  NEWCOMB'S  WORKS. 


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WAYLAND'S    UNIVERSITY    SERMONS. 

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"  Pew  sermon*  contain  10  much  care-fully  arranged  thought  ni  these  by 
Dr.  Wa)  land.  The  thorough  logician  in  apparent  throughout  the  volume, 
and  there  it  a  cluuic  purity  in  the  diction  unsurpassed  l>y  any  writer,  ana 
equalled  by  very  few."  —  JVnc  York  Commercial  .Advertiser. 

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and  were  addressed  to  a  thinking  and  well-informed  audience,  and  are 
especially  adapted  for  the  educated  and  thoughtful  man." —  Chr.  Alliance. 

"No  thinking  man  can  open  to  any  portion  of  it  without  finding  hit 
attention  strongly  arrested,  nnd  feeling  inclined  to  yield  hi*  assent  to  those 
•elf-evincing  statement*  which  appear  on  every  page.  As  a  writer,  Dr. 
Waylaml  is  dintinjuishod  by  simplicity,  strength,  and  comprehensiveness. 
He  addresses  himself  directly  to  the  intellect  more  than  to  the  imagination  ; 
to  the  conscience  more  than  to  the  passions.  Yet,  through  the  intellect 
and  the  conscience,  he  often  renrhcs  the  depths  of  our  emotive  nature,  and 
rouses  it  by  words  of  power.  Wo  commend  those  sermons  to  all  student* 
of  moral  and  religious  truth,  to  all  lovers  of  sound  thought  conveyed  in 
elegant  diction."  —  Watchman  If  Reflector. 

"  The  discourses  are  characterized  by  all  thai  richness  of  thought  and 
elegance  of  language  for  which  their  talented  author  is  celebrated.  The 
whole  volume  is  well  worthy  of  the  pen  of  the  distinguished  scholar  and 
divine  from  whom  it  emanates."  —  Dr.  Satrd's  Christian  Union. 


SACRED    RHETORIC: 

Or  Composition  and  Dilirery  of  Srrmons. 

Br  HEJIET  J.  RirLcr,  Professor  in  Newton  Theological  Institution. 

Including  Ware's  Hints  on  Extemporaneous  Preaching. 

I2au>.     Price,  To  cent*. 


"  An  admirably  prepared  work,  clear  and  succinct  in  its  positions  and 
recommendations,  soundly  based  on  good  authority,  and  well  supported  hy 
a  variety  of  reading  and  illustrations.  It  is  well  adapted  for  a  healthy  dis- 
cipline of  the  faculty,  and  there  are  few  preachers  who  might  not  with 
profit  revise  their  practice  by  its  pnges.  It  is  worthy^  too,  of  being  a  com- 
panion to  Whale ly,  in  the  general  study  of  Rhetoric."  —  A*.  J'.  Literary 
World. 

"  Prof.  Ripley  posscues  the  highest  qualifications  for  a  work  of  this  kind. 
His  position  has  given  him  great  experience  in  the  peculiar  wanU  of  theo- 
logical students."  —  Providence  Journal. 

"  This  work  belongs  among  the  substantial)  of  our  literature.  It  i*  man- 
ifestly the  fruit  of  mature  thought  and  large  observation  ;  it  is  pervaded  by 
a  manly  tone,  and  abounds  in  judicious  counsel*  ;  it  is  compactly  written, 
and  admirably  arranged,  both  for  study  and  reference.  It  will  become  a 
text-book  for  theological  students  ;  it  deserves  to  be  read  by  nil  minister* 
who  can  avail  themselves  of  it,  and  especially  hy  all  young  minister*."  — 
ff.  T.  Record*. 


REPUBLICAN    CHRISTIANITY: 

OR    TRUE    LIBERTY; 

j*»  exluttted  in  U«  L{/e,  Precepts,  and  early  Ducifles  of  At  Great  Redeemer 

BY  E.  L.   M  A  i;  i)  (i  N  . 

l-Jmo.     Pric«,  $1  25. 


"  It  is  adapted  to  the  spirit  of  the  times.  It  meets  and  answers  the  great 
inquiry  of  the  present  day.  It  describes  clearly  the  corruptions  of  past 
times,  the-  imperfections  of  thn  present,  and  the  changes  that  must  bo 
effected  in  the  forms  and  spirit  of  religion,  and  through  religion,  upun  the 
State,  to  secure  to  us  better  and  brighter  prospects  for  the  future.  The 
author  is  not  afraid  to  expose  anil  condemn  tin-  errors  and  corruptions, 
either  of  the  church  or  slate." —  CAristum  Watchman. 

"  It  is  a  very  readable,  and  we  think  will  prove  a  useful  book.  The  ar- 
gument is  clear  and  well  sustained,  and  the  style  bold  and  direct.  The 
tone  and  spirit  of  the  entire  work  are  that  of  an  independent  thinker,  and 
of  a  m;ni  whose  sympathies  are  with  the  many  and  not  with  the  few,  with 
no  privileged  cluss,  but  with  the  human  race.  We  commend  this  hook  to 
all  lovers  of  true  liberty  and  of  a  pure  Christianity."  —  Providence  Journal. 

"  Mr.  Maroon  thinks  boldly,  and  speaks  frankly,  and  with  a  variety  and 
freshness  of  illustration  that  never  fail  to  command  attention."  —  JVfta 
York  7Vi»»ne. 

"  lie  considers  Christianity  in  all  its  parts  as  essentially  republican.  Ha 
has  maintained  bis  position  with  great  tact.  It  is  a  clear,  striking,  attrac- 
tive presentation  of  his  views,  and  the  reasons  for  them.  It  will  excite 
nttention,  both  from  the  subject  itself,  and  from  the  manner  in  which  it  is 
handled."  —  Philadelphia  Chronicle. 

"  This  book  is  one  which  the  masses  will  read  with  avidity,  and  iU  pe- 
rusal, we  thiuk,  will  fire  up  the  zeal  of  tome  Christian  scholars."  —  Baptist 
Memorial. 


PROVERBS  FOR  THE  PEOPLE: 

Or,  IUtLstrativ*j  of  practical  fhdlincjf,  drawn  from  the  Book  of  rt'itdom. 

BY  E.  L.    MAGOON. 

l-2mo.     Prict,  90  cents. 

"  He  is  quaint,  sententious.  He  bos  indeed  the  three  great  qualities, 
'  pith,  point,  -mid  pathos  ; '  and  always  enforces  high  aud  noble  sentiments." 
—  -V(io  York  Recorder. 

"  It  is  a  popular  manual  of  great  practical  utility." —  Ch.  Chronicle,  Phtfa, 

"  The  subjects  are  so  selected  as  to  embrace  nearly  all  the  practical 
duties  of  lifr.  The  work,  in  consequence,  of  this  peculiar  character,  will 
be  found  extensively  useful." —  Rochester  Democrat. 

"  The  work  abounds  with  original  and  pithy  matter,  well  adapted  to  en- 
cage the  attention  and  to  reform  the  life.  \Ve  hope  these  discourses  will 
be  extensively  reiul."  —  Morning  Star,  Dover. 

"  It  is  an  excellent  book  for  young  people,  anil  especially  for  young  men, 
ajnidst  the  temptations  of  business  and  plcanurc."  —  Albany  Eiprttt. 


'.J  HISTORY   OF 

AMERICAN    BAPTIST   MISSIONS, 

IN    ASIA,  AFRICA,   EUROPE,   AND    NORTH    AMERICA, 
Under  the  care  of  the  American  Baptist  Missionary  Union. 

BY  WILLIAM  GA.MMELL,  A.  M. 

JTitA  teten  Map*.     12mo.     Price,  S<ceiUj-j!re  cent*. 

"  Wo  welcome  with  unfeigned  pleasure  this  new  contribution  to  lh» 
literature  of  Christian  Minion*.  The  author  relates  tbe  history  of  the 
•everal  missions  in  his  own  won)*,  presenting  a  concise  and  luminuui  nar- 
rative of  each.  'I'lm  volume  i*  written  in  an  easy  and  elegant  style,  and  u 
worthy  of  the  high  station  and  name  of  the  author."  —  Baptist  Jlfagaiiiu. 

"  The  need  for  such  a  work  has  long  been  felt.  It  is  true  that  tbe  matter 
bare  presented  has  been  acceptable  in  other  forms.  But  it  needed  to  be 
condensed,  arranged,  and  presented  to  the  reader  in  an  attractive  form.  To 
all  who  wish  to  comprehend  the  present  position  of  our  tuitions,  by  a 
knowledge  of  their  past  history,  it  will  be  ai,  invaluable  aid.  Indeed,  a 
copy  should  be  in  every  family.  Pastors  and  others  who  wish  to  urge  for- 
waid  the  home  work  of  foreign  missions,  would  do  well  to  circulate  it  as 
widely  as  possible  in  the  churches."  —  Phdadcijilua.  Chronicle.. 

"  Prof.  Gammcll  is  a  writer  of  rare  taste.  The  pieparation  of  such  a 
work  could  Dot  have  fallen  into  better  hands.  The  reader  is  borne  along 
from  chapter  to  chapter  with  a  narrative  which,  while  it  fully  satisfies  his 
desire  to  know,  commend"  itself  as  entirely  truthful  ami  trustworthy.  The 


facts  recorded  arc  as  carefully  stated  as  the  style  of  the  work  is  chastened 
and  pure.  That  it  will  greatly  promote  the  missionary  spirit,  and  nerve  to 
increase  tbe  missionary  zeal  of  our  churches,  we  hnve  no  question.  In 


reading  wo  have  been  struck  with  the  difference  between  a  knowledge  of 
our  mission*,  gathered  from  magazines  and  newspapers  scattered  through 
successive  yean,  and  that  which  is  obtained  from  a  compact  and  authori- 
tative narrative,  bringing  the  whole  before  the  observer  at  a  single  view. 
Let  pastors,  friends  of  missions,  agents,  and  colporteurs,  scatter  it  by  thou- 
sands. Like  bread  cast  upon  the  waters,  it  will  come  back  in  prayers  and 
blessings.  No  Baptist  family  should  be  without  it."  —  .V.  1'.  Recorder. 

"  This  work  is  the  result  of  great  labor  nml  research,  and  preienU  an 
exceedingly  satisfactory  view  of  the  missionary  operations  of  the  Baptists 
in  this  country.  It  is  well  that  it  has  fallen  into  the  hands  of  a  man  whone 
extensive  knowledge  and  good  judgment  and  candid  Christian  spirit  qualify 
him  so  eminently  for  such  a  service."  —  Albany  .trfus. 

"  Emanating  from  such  a  source,  and  under  such  auspices,  the  volume 
before  us  is  a  valuable  contribution  to  American  literature,  as  well  as  to 
the  history  of  Christian  missions.  Prof.  Gammcll  has  executed  his  task 
with  singular  success.  The  style,  always  clear  and  correct,  is,  graceful  and 
flowing,  and  in  many  a  passage,  descriptive  of  the  toils  and  adventures  of 
missionary  life,  is  full  of  eloquence  and  beauty."—  Providence  Journal. 

"  Prof.  Gammell  has  exhibited  evidence,  in  this  volume,  of  deep  research 
and  great  fidelity.  lie  hns  not  merely  furnished  us  with  statistics,  but  has 
thrown  around  his  subject  almost  the  attraction  of  romance.  It  will  be 
read  with  much  interest,  we  think,  by  laymen,  and  will  be  especially  useful 
to  clergymen  as  an  authoritative  reference  book.  We  heartily  commend 
this  volume  to  our  readers."  —  Baptist  Memorial. 

JET  The  work  is  printed  in  handsome  style,  and  told  at  the  rrry  loa  priet  ef 
75  cents  per  copy.  Pastors,  a?e*U,  and  others  who  may  engage  in  its  tire*- 
lotion,  will  be  supplied  on  very  liberal  Umu,  ty  tht  do-.en  vr  hundred. 


THE    EARTH    AND    MAN: 

on  Comparative  Physical  Geography,  in  iU  Rtlatian  to  the  History 

of  Mankind, 

Br  ARNOLD  GCTOT,  Prof.  Phys.  Geo.  and  Hist.,  Neuchatel. 

Translated  from  the  Frenck  by  Pior.  C.  C.  FBLTOH.     With.  lUuttrttiona. 

I2mo.    Price,  $1  25. 


"The  work  is  one  of  high  merit,  exhibiting  a  wide  range  of  knowledge, 
great  research,  and  *  philosophical  spirit  of  investigation.  Its  perusal  will 
well  repay  the  most  leitrned  in  such  subjects,  and  give  new  views  to  all  of 
man's  relation  to  the  globe  he  inhabits."  —  SiUimtut's  Journal. 

•'  To  the  reader  we  shall  owe  no  apology,  if  we  have  said  enough  to 
excite  his  curiosity,  and  to  persuade  him  to  look  to  the  book  itself  for  fur- 
ther instruction."  —  JVortA  Jlmericm*  Review, 

"  The  grand  idea  of  the  work  is  happily  expressed  by  the  author,  where 
he  calls  it  the  geographical  inarch  of  History.  *  *  *  The  man  of  science 
will  hail  it  as  a  henutiful  generalization  from  the  facts  of  observation.  The 
Christian,  who  trusts  in  a  merciful  Providence,  will  draw  courage  from  it, 
and  hope  yet  more  earnestly  for  the  redemption  of  the  most  degraded  por- 
tions of  mankind.  Faith,  science,  learning,  poetry,  taste,  in  a  word, 
genius,  have  liberally  contributed  to  the  production  of  the  work  under 
review.  Sometimes  we  feel  as  if  we  were  studying  a  treatise  on  the  exact 
sciences  ;  at  others,  it  strikes  the  ear  like  an  epic  poem.  Now  it  reads  like 
history,  and  now  it  sound.'  like  prophecy.  It  will  find  readers  in  whatever 
laiii-iirii'e  it  may  lie  published  ;  and  in  the  elegant  English  dress  which  it 
has  received  from  the  accomplished  pen  of  the  translator,  it  will  not  fail  to 
interest,  instruct,  and  inspire."  —  Christian  Examiner. 

"  These  lectures  form  one  of  the  most  valuable  contributions  to  geogra- 
phical science  that  has  ever  been  published  in  thii  country.  They  invest 
the  study  of  geography  with  an  interest  which  will,  we  doubt  not,  surprise 
and  delight  many.  They  will  open  an  entire  new  world  to  most  readers, 
and  will  be  found  an  invaluable  aid  to  the  teacher  and  student  of  geog- 
raphy."—  Evening  Traveller. 

'•  We  venture  to  pronounce  this  one  of  the  most  interesting  and  instruc- 
tive books  which  have  come  from  the  American  press  for  many  a  month. 
The  science  of  which  it  treats,  is  comparatively  of  recent  origin  ;  but  it  is  of 
great  importance,  not  only  on  account  of  its  connections  with  other  branches 
of  knowledge,  but  for  its  bearing  upon  many  of  the  interests  of  society. 
It  abound!)  with  the  richest  interest  and  instruction  to  every  intelligent 
reader,  and  is  especially  fitted  to  awaken  enthusiasm  and  delight  in  all  who 
are  devoted  to  the  study,  either  of  natural  science  or  the  history  of  man- 
kind." —  Providence  Journal. 

"  Geography  U  here  presented  under  a  new  and  attractive  phase  ;  it  is  no 
longer  a  dry  desc-iption  of  the  features  of  the  earth's  surface.  The  influ- 
ence of  soil,  scenery,  and  climate  upon  character,  has  not  yet  received  th« 
consideration  due  to  it  from  historians  and  philosophers.  In  the  volume 
before  us,  the  profound  investigations  of  Humboldt,  Ritter,  and  others,  in 
Physical  Geography,  are  presented  in  a  popular  form,  and  with  the  clear- 
ness and  vivacity  so  characteristic  of  French  treatises  on  science.  The 
work  should  be  introduced  into  our  higher  school*." —  The  Independent, 
JW»  York. 

"  Geography  is  here  made  to  assume  a  dignity  not  heretofore  attached  to 
it.  The  knowledge  communicated  in  these  lectures  if  curious,  unexpected, 
absorbing."  —  Christian  Mirror,  Portland. 


PROGRESSIVE    PENMANSHIP, 

PLAIN    AND    ORNAMKNTAL, 

FOB    THE    USE    OF    SCHOOLS  ; 
BY  N.   D.  GOULD, 

Author  of  '  Bfanties  of  Writing,'    '  Writing  Matter's  Assistant.' 

Messrs.  GOULP,  KENDALL  &  LINCOLN  are  happy  to  announce 
the  above  work  from  a  well-known  penman,  whose  great  experi- 
ence in  execution  and  instruction  has  so  eminently  qualified  him 
to  devise  a  system  of  Penmanship  adapted  both  to  the  want*  of 
Schools,  and  for  the  exercise  of  the  experienced  Penman. 

The  copies  are  arranged  iu  progressive  series,  and  are  likewise 
so  diversified  by  the  introduction  of  variations  in  style,  and 
especially  by  the  interspersiou  of  a  great  number  of  Capital  let- 
ters, as  to  command  the  constant  attention  and  exercise  the 
ingenuity  of  the  learner,  thus  removing  some  of  the  most  serious 
obstacles  to  the  success  of  the  teacher.  They  are  divided  into 
five  series,  intended  for  the  like  number  of  books,  and  are  so  ar- 
ranged that  a  copy  always  comes  over  the  top  of  the  page  on 
which  it  is  to  be  written. 

There  are  ninety-six  copies,  presenting,  in  the  first  place,  a 
regular  inductive  system  of  Penmanship  for  ordinary  business 
purposes,  followed  by  examples  of  every  variety  of  Ornamental 
Writing. 

The  Copy  Books  are  of  two  sizes,  medium  and  letter  sheet,  — 
thus  accommodating  the  wants  of  those  who  desire  larger  sized 
books  than  are  in  general  use.  The  letter  sheet  size  is  divided 
into  four  consecutive  books ;  the  smaller  sizes  into  five. 

The  admirable  and  natural  plan  of  the  work,  the  beauty  of  its 
execution,  the  superior  quality  of  the  paper,  and  its  cheapntts, 
must  commend  it  to  the  favorable  regard  of  every  one. 

TEACHERS,  SCHOOL  COMMITTEES,  nnd  others  interested,  are 
invited  to  examine  this  series,  which  is  confidently  presented 
as  superior,  in  plan  and  execution,  to  any  book  of  the  kind 
heretofore  published. 


University  of  California 

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405  Hilgard  Avenue,  Los  Angeles,  CA  90024-1388 

Return  this  material  to  the  library 

from  which  it  was  borrowed. 


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